Knesset holds emergency session on yeshiva student bill

MKs, student reps gather to discuss controversial bill meant to bypass High Court decision, fund yeshiva students

Roni Sofer|Published: 10.25.10 , 13:38

The Knesset called an emergency session on a new bill bypassing the High Court of Justice's ruling by granting yeshiva students stipends worth some NIS120 millions in state funds. The meeting is attended by ministers and secular student leaders.

The emergency session was called after the bill stirred controversy across the political spectrum and among students who announced they will stage mass demonstrations in protest of the bill.

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"Since last night, students have been fuming. We've been flooded with emails and Facebook messages, and are planning to fight against the bill with full force," Chair of the National Student Union Itzik Shmueli told Ynet.

The session discussed practical steps to integrate the haredi population in higher education institutions, employment market and national and military service.

Knesset members from both the coalition and opposition are expected to speak during the session.

Opposition Chairwoman Tzipi Livni (Kadima) warned that the "government bad politics, which result in discrimination, will lead to a rift in society."

MK Yohanan Plesner (Kadima) added that Israeli students had his party's full support in their fight against the bill, while Minister of Minority Affairs Avishay Braverman added that "integrating the haredim in the workforce and in the military is for their own good."

Braverman added that student fights should not be limited to issues of tuition only.