Katzir Reminds Israelis, at Start of Independence Day, of Labor’s Selfishness, Political Misconduct

Israel began celebrating the 29th anniversary of its independence tonight with festive ceremonies all over the country, especially in Jerusalem which is also marking the 10th anniversary of its re-unification Symbolic beacons were kindled, fireworks displays lit up the skies and throngs mingled in the streets and around bon-fires in open areas.

But if Israelis hoped to forget, at least for the moment, the grave problems besetting their country, President Ephraim Katzir chose the occasion of Independence Day Eve to remind them of the heavy toll taken by selfishness on the labor front and misconduct by public servants. In a sober radio and television address tonight, Katzir said. “Citizens of Israel, my heart is full of anxiety concerning the negative phenomena on the labor front, especially in the service industries, which we have been witnessing.” He called for some of the same spirit that Israelis demonstrate in times of war and danger.

Without referring to any specific instance, Katzir said “The State of Israel guards its democratic processes….This quality of the State imposed on every one of its citizens, and especially their elected representatives, a special responsibility….It is a great honor and also a heavy responsibility to be a public servant. From the people’s representatives we expect good and wise decisions, honesty in their personal behavior and a good example to the community as a whole.”

WAR DEAD MEMORIALIZED

Earlier in the day, Premier Yitzhak Rabin spoke at ceremonies at Jerusalem’s military cemetery memorializing the nation’s war dead. “Our independence was not given to us on a silver platter,” he said. “Every inch of the soil of our land is saturated with the blood of our heroic sons, every part of the country is filled with their heroic deeds, the fine and courageous lions of Israel who gave their lives in the battle for our revival.” Sirens brought a halt to all activity at 11 a.m. when cars and pedestrians halted to observe two minutes of silence for the war dead.

Tomorrow is a legal holiday which most Israelis are expected to spend picnicking if the weather permits. The pious will go to synagogues to recite psalms. There is no major military parade scheduled but army bases will be open to the public. Attention will center on the finals of the International Youth Bible Quiz which will be broadcast live from Jerusalem on radio and television and on the presentation of this year’s Israel Prizes to scholars in various fields.