Knesset's cafeteria
Photo: Dan Balilty
Knesset bans 'on tab' billing at cafetria
Ahead of the Knesset winter session opening Monday, management introduces new cafeteria franchiser, opens special 'club' for former MKs
A bug's Life
Amnon Meranda
Just as Shas MKs dine in parliament's eatery, pest pops up and snatches away establishment's kosher certificate. But don't worry too much about elected representatives going hungry
Beginning next Knesset session, a new franchiser will operate the Knesset's cafeteria, in place of the previous franchiser whose term will be most remembered because of the cockroach that was found in a diner's plate. The embarrassing incident led to the temporary shut down of Knesset cafeterias, as well as problems with its kosher certificate.
"The new tender received a number of improvements in order to assure the quality of service," read Landua's letter. Among the changes, the Knesset management created an assistance framework to guarantee the franchiser's economic stability during times of limited activity at the Knesset, the kitchen and buffet were renovated, and garbage disposal was optimized to maintain high levels of hygiene.
Landau wrote that the Knesset management will nominate Knesset employees that will supervise the cafeteria operator in order to "maintain high standards and handle problems in a timely manner."
Regarding the issue of "on credit buying", in which employees put their purchases "on the tab," Landau wrote: "The cafeteria operator was directed not to accept 'on credit' purchases in order to prevent unpleasantness. Accordingly, purchases will be made using cash or credit, as well as by a standing order."
'Former MKs had no where to sit down'
While 120 Knesset members return for winter session Monday, so will many former Knesset members, who will join the new "club"; a room which will serve as a "former Knesset members club" and will be inaugurated by Speaker of the Knesset Reuven Rivlin on Monday.
Former MK Igal Bibi, who promoted the opening of the club, told Ynet: "I am happy that after 60 years Rubi Rivlin decided to open a club for former MKs. Up until now, we would come, walk around, and have no where to sit down. Now we'll have a room, a small hall where we can use the phone, computer and internet."
The speaker of the Knesset's chamber said in response that "the former MKs' association has been active for a number of years, and the Knesset supplies them with office services. Beginning tomorrow they will be given a more spacious room with couches, a computer, newspapers and a TV, similar to the Knesset's other chambers."
Rivlin congratulated the improvement, calling it "a deserving and honorable step towards those who have served the public for many years and continue to be part of the Knesset's human landscape. They arrive from time to time to take part in events; the Knesset is interested in giving them a respectful gathering place."
