For hundreds of Chatzor HaGlilit families, the battle to keep the Vita Pri HaGalil factory operational is not a matter of principle or politics, but survival. Dozens of employees of the food processing factory have been holed up inside since Sunday, vowing a hunger strike to the death as they desperately act to keep their source of livelihood operational. Workers have chained the gates closed and burned tires in protest.

While the company is reported to be profitable, it has registered a NIS 160 million debt and Bank Leumi and other creditors are calling in the chips.

A final decision regarding the factory’s future is expected today, Tuesday, in the Haifa District Court. The hearing is scheduled to begin at 2:00pm.

Factory officials point out the factory is the largest in Chatzor HaGlilit and among the largest of the northern area employers.

Labor leader Moti Chaziza explains “this is a fight for our home, our survival”. He adds there is no reason to close a profitable business. “Shutting us down will result in economic disaster for the northern area. This factory is the city. We all rely on it”.

Chatzor HaGlilit Mayor Shimon Suissa explains shutting Pri HaGalil will bring unemployment in his community from the current 10% to a staggering 30%.

All workers in Chatzor HaGlilit are striking today in a showing of solidarity with Pri HaGalil employees.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)