'Jerusalem off the table.' Yishai
Photo: Gil Yohanan
Livni-Yishai coalition talks successful
Kadima, Shas leaders discuss Jerusalem, child welfare payments in attempt to bridge ideological gaps, pave way for Shas' inclusion in new government
After Labor Party Chairman Ehud Barak showed greater willingness to consider the formation of a new government under the leadership of Tzipi Livni, the newly elected Kadima chairwoman met Shas leader Eli Yishai on Tuesday as part of the ongoing coalition negotiations.
Livni and Yishai agreed that representatives from both parties will soon meet in an attempt to bridge the ideological gaps between the parties, particularly with regards to socio-economic issues, and draft guidelines for the new government.
On Monday President Shimon Peres tasked Livni with forming a coalition.
During the meeting Yishai mentioned Jerusalem and child welfare payments, as well as the rise in rent prices.
The haredi party is demanding that Kadima promise that Jerusalem will not be discussed during the peace negotiations with the Palestinian Authority, as well as the allocation of an additional NIS 1 billion ($290 million) in child welfare payments.
It is estimated that the sides will eventually work out their differences, particularly in light of the fact that Labor is inching closer toward joining the new coalition.
