Kadima chairwoman and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tzipi Livni today slammed the Labor Party and Shas over their opposition to the Ministry of Finance's economic recovery plan. She said that their opposition was partisan motivated.
Livni said, "It is infuriating to see political parties trying to make partisan gain at the public's expense. The opposition of the Labor Party and Shas to the emergency plan demonstrates why people should not vote for sector-based parties."
Livni added that opposition to the plan will prevent billions of shekels in investment in infrastructures and support for businesses. "The plan is essential for dealing with the economic crisis and the possible recession, irrespective of the question whether the government should provide remedies to the financial and savings issue," she said.
Livni said that she expects "all of Israel's political leadership, despite the election period, to rise above election calculations and do what is good for the country rather than what is good for the party."
Shas today denied reports that it opposes the economic plan. Shas chairman and Minister of Industry, Trade and Labor Eli Yishai said, "We'll support the plan after necessary changes are made in the loan fund and aid to small businesses, and in the amount of investment in jobs. I want the Israeli citizen who is currently in difficulties to feel the aid today and not in a year from now."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on November 18, 2008
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2008