Hirchson will not suspend himself, aides say
Following suspicions finance minister took cash bribe, his associates say he believes he will be cleared of all charges
The associates said that Hirchson was not considering taking leave until the police investigation is completed.
"He is well aware of the difficult atmosphere created by the publications accompanying the investigation against him, but he believes he will be cleared of all charges, knowing he is completely innocent," an aide said.
On Tuesday evening, Hirchson convened a press conference to comment on the Histadrut labor federation's general strike, but found himself facing a slew of questions regarding police allegations.
"I'm running state affairs and I will continue to run then and I have nothing to add to what I told the police," the finance minister said.
Hirchson, who was questioned by police earlier on Tuesday on suspicions of receiving cash payments, refused to answer any of the reporters' questions.
On Tuesday evening it was also revealed that during a return trip from Poland in 1997, officials uncovered $250,000 cash concealed in Hirchson's belongings. This incident was not part of the line of questioning pursued by police on Tuesday but it will be part of future questionings.
Hirchson's son Ofer was also questioned on related embezzlement charges.
Police are also reportedly investigating allegations of personal involvement on Hirchson's part in acts of fraud.
According to suspicions, Hirchson failed to report embezzlement in the organization when he served as chairman of the National Workers Labor Federation.
