The Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, recently held a meeting at his office in Jerusalem to discuss the issue of attracting foreign workers to the country. The forum of director generals from various ministries, led by Yossi Shelley, director general of the Ministry of the Prime Minister, has been working intensely on this matter. Their goal is to significantly increase the number of foreign workers in Israel, reduce costs of living, streamline bureaucracy and employment practices for foreign workers, and protect their rights.
Netanyahu instructed that a decision be presented for government approval next week to determine the number of foreign workers in Israel and establish an adjustment mechanism for rising Israeli unemployment. The forum will allocate quotas to different sectors based on current needs.
The government has made plans to reduce duties and fees for obtaining permits for foreign workers in industries such as construction, agriculture and manufacturing. Resources will also be allocated to enhance supervision systems and tackle challenges faced by foreign workers which will ultimately reduce regulatory burden on employers.
Agreements have been reached between the government and Chief Minister’s Ministry, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Construction to bring over 6000 Indian workers to Israel in April and May through subsidized charter flights. This significant influx of foreign construction workers will ease pressure on local labor markets with a focus on reducing costs for employers while improving quality standards.
