NSW Politicians heading for Israel
The first-ever study mission to Israel exclusively for NSW Members of Parliament will take place early next year.
Walt Secord, the Rev Fred Nile, Gabrielle Upton, Israel's Ambassador Yuval Rotem, NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell and Yair Miller
The NSW Parliamentary Friends of Israel Study Mission will be facilitated by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. It was announced by Premier Barry O’Farrell at the community’s the Israel Independence Day Cocktail Reception last Thursday.
The mission will take place early next year. Meetings and high-level briefings will be arranged for participants, as well as educational touring and day trips. Aspects of the program will be tailored to ensure that MPs engage with sectors of Israeli society, industry and politics relevant to their specific areas of interest. Participants will also spend time in Palestinian areas.
Gabrielle Upton MP, chair of the Friendship group, said: “It is very appropriate that this inaugural study mission should take place in the wake of the re-establishment of the Parliamentary Friends. I am pleased to be able to participate.”
Friends deputy chair Walt Secord MP added: “Having the benefit of top-level briefings with experts in various fields can only enhance our understanding of the complexities of the region.”
Board president Yair Miller said “it is important for Members of Parliament to see and feel Israel for themselves. They will be exposed to the full political spectrum of Israeli society, including meeting with Arab Israelis and other minorities.”
Photo: Henry Benjamin
