NRW state parliament debates growing anti-Semitism
The sharp rise in anti-Semitic incidents in North Rhine-Westphalia since the terrorist attack by Islamist Hamas on Israel on October 7 will be a topic of discussion in the state parliament on Thursday (10:00 a.m.). The AfD has requested a topical hour on the subject.
According to the state's anti-Semitism commissioner, Sabine Leutheusser-Schnarrenberger, more than 380 anti-Semitic incidents were registered in NRW between the Hamas massacre and the first week of November alone. More are being added every day, she said.
The incidents ranged from tearing up the Israeli flag, damage to property and marking houses with the Star of David to violent crimes. By comparison, there were around 100 anti-Semitic incidents in NRW in the first half of 2023.
In view of the increasing hostility towards Jews, the NRW state government announced at the beginning of November that it would step up the fight against anti-Semitism and the protection of Jewish institutions. For example, the state is increasing funding for security measures at synagogues and other Jewish institutions by an additional 11.5 million euros. Minister-President Hendrik Wüst (CDU) said that those who bring hatred of Israel or Jews into society will feel the full force of the rule of law.
Another topic in the plenary session is the state government's plan to raise the age limit for firefighters from 60 to 62. The SPD and FDP opposition factions are calling in motions for the age limit to be left at 60. Since Wednesday, the trade unions Verdi and Komba have been protesting against the plans of the black-green coalition with a 24-hour vigil in front of the NRW state parliament.
In addition, the plenum will continue the debate on the ministries' individual budget plans on Thursday as part of the second reading of the Budget Act 2024.
The AfD also proposed a discussion on extremist groups, specifically those promoting anti-Semitic views, during the topical hour in Parliament. Regrettably, reports of crime associated with extremist ideology, such as vandalism of Jewish properties and violent attacks, have escalated in the region.
Source: www.dpa.com
