Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich Freezes Special Grant Promised to Arab Authorities
07.08.2023
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced the freezing of a special grant that was promised to the Arab authorities in the previous government. This decision was made based on a reassessment of priorities, according to Network 2.
The Minister of the Interior, Moshe Arbel, had previously written a letter to Minister Smotrich, urging him to release the budgets of the Arab authorities. The funds total 314 million shekels, with 200 million shekels in the balance budgets, 100 million shekels in the development budgets, 10 million for accessibility purposes, and 4 million allocated for emergency situations.
Minister Arbel emphasized the importance of transferring the money promptly, as the Arab authorities have already made financial commitments based on these budgets. However, the Ministry of Finance is concerned about the possibility of the funds falling into the hands of criminal organizations. Resolution 550, also known as the Taqid program, proposed the creation of a mechanism through which the funds would be transferred and invested appropriately. This mechanism has yet to be established, leading to the freezing of the budgets.
In response to the freezing of these budgets, the Committee of Heads of Authorities has contacted the Legal Adviser to the Government. They have also set up a protest tent in the Government Building in Jerusalem. Moreover, the committee has announced that they will not open the school year due to the authorities’ inability to provide basic services to residents.
The decision to freeze the special grant has sparked controversy and concern among Arab authorities, who argue that the funds are essential for them to fulfill their responsibilities and provide necessary services to their communities. They are urging Minister Smotrich to reconsider his decision and release the budgets as soon as possible.
The situation remains unresolved, and it’s unclear when or if the funds will ultimately be released. The Committee of Heads of Authorities vows to continue their protest until a resolution is reached, while Minister Smotrich maintains that he is reviewing the situation and will make a decision based on the country’s priorities.