Unfair allocation slammed in Israel's welfare budget

The Israeli Ministry of Welfare and Social Services said in an internal report that 80 percent of the budget for public institutions goes to Jewish ultra-orthodox institutions and religious seminaries, local Ma'ariv daily newspaper reported Wednesday. The budget allocation for ultra-orthodox institutions stands at NIS 64.2 million million U.S. dollars), whereas the overall budget is NIS 81 million (21.3 million dollars). Welfare institutions for the general public, such as nursing homes for the elderly and disabled, shelters for battered wives and abused children receive the remaining 20 percent of the pie, the report contends. Israeli society is sharply polarized over the lack of participation by much the ultra-Orthodox community in the army and work force, which angered many secular and religiously traditional Israelis who take part in both areas. Ultra-orthodox couples often raise large families, as well, and get tax breaks and special allocations as well as increased financial assistance. However, for their part, such groups, to varying degrees view their lifestyle and near-full time religious studies as essential to maintaining the Jewish character of the state. Last week, Israeli news outlets reported on an upcoming Bank of Israel report revealing that the ultra-orthodox community is the majority among those who receive financial assistance as low- income earners. In response to Wednesday's report of budget allocation, the ministry denied any preferential treatment in budget allocations. "The transfer of support funds to public institutions is based on equal and informed criteria which are publicly available," the ministry said in its response.