Investigation into the cost of cars in Israel and Taxi Drivers Protest against fuel costs in Israel

Investigation into the cost of cars in Israel

Israel's Transport Minister Israel Katz, has announced a new committee to examine the level of competition in the car industry.  As part of the Israeli Government's attempt to show it is listening to the social demonstrations against the high cost of living in Israel, the Transport Minister has said that the committee will look at the cost of purchasing a car in Israel, as well as the cost of spare parts, leasing cars and whether warranties are honored by car dealerships.  The commitee will be chaired by Yaron Zelekha.

Taxi Drivers Protest against fuel costs

Taxi drivers last week joined the demonstrations on Rothschild Boulevard in Tel Aviv to protest against high petrol costs, caused by the high taxes.

 Photo by Motti Milrod, Haaretz

Although the Government has reduced the price of fuel in Israel, the level of tax on fuel was not reduced, from the 40% level it currently is, which differentially affects professional drivers.

Taxi Fares to Rise by 4% on Tuesday and Israel's Sun D'Or Airline has operating licence withdrawn - Monday 21 March 2011

Taxi Fares in Israel to Rise by 4% tomorrow

The Transport Ministry in Israel announced yesterday that taxi fares will increase by 4% on Tuesday 22 March 2011, to reflect the rising cost of diesel.

Israel's Sun D'Or Airline has operating licence withdrawn

The Civil Aviation Authority in Israel has revoked the operating licence of the Israeli airline Sun D'Or as of 1 April 2011, for not complying with international aviation standards.  The decision announced by the Transport Ministry followed discussions with the airline for over a year and the European Commission which had concerns about the company's operations.

The airline is owned by El Al and specialises in scheduled and chartered services to destinations in Europe.  The company was founded in 1981 and hass three Boeing 757-200 planes.