Knesset panel approves forming commission for equality in employment

The Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee on Tuesday approved the establishment of a commission promoting equality in employment. The bill, put forth by the Israel Women's Network, is expected to be passed by the Knesset plenum, as it has the backing of both Finance Minister Ehud Olmert and Justice Minister Tzipi Livni.

According to the bill, submitted by MKs Eti Livni (Shinui) and Yuli Tamir (Labor), the commission will investigate workers' complaints on discrimination based on gender, religion, nationality, age and sexual preference, and will sue employers for law violations.

According to Olmert, the establishment of the commission will help strengthen workers and will increase the enforcement of labor laws.

An equality commission will be appointed by the government for a five year tenure, and will oversee regional commissioners. The commissioner will submit an annual report to the government on the commission's activities, and will submit his or her opinion on equal opportunities in the workplace.

The commission will contact places of employment to review their activities on promoting equality, and will have the authority to represent workers in court against employers. The commission will also be able to act as a public petitioner and file class actions, legal measures allowing workers to maintain their anonymity and ensure their future employment.

According to the bill, the regional commissions will be able to summon individuals suspected of law violations for questioning and demand they provide documents and information regarding employees' complaints. After issuing a warning, the regional commissioners will be able to visit any place of employment to review the enforcement of equal opportunity legislation and check documents and pay slips. Upon completing the investigation, the regional commissioner will be able to petition the Labor Court.