From the Families of the Victims of the Yarkon Bridge Disaster
which
occurred on 14th July 1997
just prior to the opening ceremony of
the 15th Maccabiah
KNESSSET MACCABIAH INQUIRY CHAIRMAN
BACKS VICTIMS' CALL FOR RESIGNATIONS
MK Goldman's remarks followed Sydney barrister, Robert Kaye's address to the Special Committee. Mr Kaye representing the families of the victims pro bono, called for the resignations or standing aside of Ronald Bakalarz and Uzi Netanel, President and Chairman of MWU respectively.
Mr Kaye told the Special Committee that such resignations could be achieved by invoking full legal protection and would show;
* "recognition of principles of accountability and governance which are entrenched in every modern legal system;
* easing the burden of the victims and their families and demonstrate sensitivity;
* send a message to Maccabi athletes all over the world that MWU is an organisation prepared to take responsibility."
Mr Kaye further stated that if those bearing ultimate responsibility remain in their positions then this "will be interpreted in Australia as a statement that MWU is indifferent to the well-being of its members all over the world."
Mr Bakalarz is scheduled to appear before the Special Committee on 5 January 1999 where it is expected that the Committee will call for his resignation.
Click here for the full text of Mr Kaye's address.
For further information please contact colin@physico.com.au