Histadrut Chairman Predicts Major Growth in Retiree Membership

The annual conference for state employee retirees, organized by the Fund for State Retirees, took place this week in Eilat, drawing 2,400 participants from across Israel and marking one of the largest retiree gatherings in the country. Histadrut Chairman Arnon Bar-David attended the event on Monday to address the attendees.

Bar-David emphasized the Histadrut's commitment to retirees, stating, "You have a home in the Histadrut. Never forget that." He highlighted the organization's efforts over the past five years, working with professional unions and various branches to significantly increase retiree membership. "From 40,000 retiree members, we expect to reach 101,000 soon," he announced, underscoring the substantial role retirees play in Israeli society.

He praised the establishment and growth of associated foundations, acknowledging Ehud Serfian and his team for building what he called an "empire," and thanked Ofir Elkayal for leading the foundation as chairman. Bar-David also mentioned ongoing efforts to secure beneficial agreements for retirees, including a cumulative pension plan, and noted the foundations' role in enabling retirees to pursue learning and personal development.

Addressing the growing numbers of state and local authority employees, Bar-David affirmed the Histadrut's dedication to finding solutions and looking ahead to the future needs of workers and retirees, which he believes is crucial for Israel's future. He stressed the inclusive nature of the Histadrut, bringing together diverse segments of Israeli society, and asserted its political independence, stating, "The Histadrut today is not in the pocket of any party!" The organization, he added, works with all political sides to advance workers' interests.

Ofir Elkayal, Chairman of the State Employees' Union and the Fund for State Retirees, expressed his admiration for the retirees' volunteer spirit and their contributions to building the state and public service. He thanked Bar-David for his advocacy, particularly for the cumulative pension agreement, and acknowledged the acquisition of a new building that will serve as a new home for the Fund, offering space for lectures and a podcast studio focused on the third age.

Shmulik Mizrahi, Chairman of the Retirees' Union, credited Bar-David's leadership for the current strength of retirees and recalled past achievements, such as securing benefits for public sector employees and fighting against the cancellation of a 15% income tax exemption. He mentioned a recent press conference with party representatives and stated that commitments have already been secured.

Yoel Zilberman, CEO of "Hashomer HaChadash," also spoke, drawing a parallel between the spirit of volunteerism seen on October 7th, particularly among retirees, and the ongoing activities of the Fund. The conference program included panels on health and retirement planning, maximizing rights, social security, and brain research, alongside entertainment and workshops.