Finance Minister Avigdor Lieberman has dismissed allegations against the government's current policy of not compensating business owners for the decline in redemptions recorded in the past two weeks following the spread of the Omicron strain.
In a press briefing, Lieberman said: "I saw the dividends that the company owners attracted for the profits in 2021, I wish everyone the same situation in 2022."
"Since there is also no general closure, then there is also no grant for every citizen. We certainly believe that every business that is harmed should help him, but it should be understood that in the end most businesses are in excellent condition and I am happy about that as finance minister."
Lieberman on the storm of mentors: "Unsuccessful wording" // Photo: Knesset Channel
"I must make sure that the economy works. To this day, the affected industries have received hundreds of millions of shekels in aid. The total aid given to all companies involved in inbound tourism to individual hotels. My role as Minister of Finance is to maintain the public coffers. "
The Minister of Finance added: "In the end, it is impossible to reach dramatic conclusions based on 10 days. We check ourselves every day. A summary meeting is held every day at the Ministry of Finance at 11 pm. We are on our toes, even in the most apocalyptic scenario 90 percent of the country Israel will function. Our main problem at the moment is the lack of working hands, even as of this evening.
"I listen to the media and see an apocalypse. I suggest that the media also behave in a considered and responsible manner and address the facts. We are prepared in every way and for every scenario. From what I hear from the experts, we must maintain stability and judgment."
Business owners these days are dealing not only with the decline in turnover, but also with the severe shortage of workers who are also in isolation.
Despite the clear need for a business assistance outline, no such plan has been formulated so far.
Contrary to previous waves of morbidity, business owners seem to have come to terms with the situation and are not taking to the streets to demonstrate, thus allowing the government to continue to pursue a tight-lipped policy.
According to the Association of Restaurants, the past week has brought with it a 10% -40% decline in restaurant and bar activity.
In areas of extensive tourism such as Jerusalem, Jaffa and Acre, the decrease reaches 50% of the turnover due to the lack of tourists.
Beyond that, the restaurant industry suffers from a shortage of manpower due to the isolation of the workers.
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