MK Abbas Zkoor (United Arab List-Ta'al)
MK Zkoor: Provide train info in Arabic
Transportation minister urged to order Israel Railways to provide signs, announcements, website in Arabic
Israel Railways’ PA system should include announcements in Arabic, according to a letter addressed to Transportation Minister Shaul Mofaz.
In the letter, MK Abbas Zkoor (United Arab List-Ta'al) urges Mofaz to order Israel Railways' management to provide information in the Arabic language as well as in Hebrew and English.
"Israel Railways is a public body that was set up to serve all the citizens of the state - Jews and Arabs - and in order to give proper service to passengers from both sectors, Israel Railways must provide information in the Arabic language also," Zkoor wrote.
The MK said he decided to petition Mofaz following numerous appeals by Arab citizens who often feel lost at train stations and on trains, as signage is only available in Hebrew and English.
In addition, Zkoor pointed out that Israel Railways’ website is available in Hebrew, English, and Russian, but not in Arabic.
“I appeal to you and ask that you order the railway’s management to use Arabic in all train stations, and to provide information on the railway’s website to Arab passengers as well. That way, all of Israel’s citizens can enjoy the service of Israel Railways,” Zkoor said.
In response, Israel Railways issued a statement saying, “We have not received his appeal. Not from the Knesset member or anyone on his behalf. When we receive his appeal, we will respond accordingly.”
