The High Court of Justice: Races for Gambling Must Be Subject to Knesset Legislation

By Hadar Kanne

The Business Post (published by The Jerusalem Post)

16 April 2007, Tel Aviv

Translated from Hebrew

Last Thursday, three Justices of the High Court of Justice ruled in a hearing on the petition filed by "Hakol Chai" against the government's plan to establish racecourses in Israel for the industry of horseracing for gambling purposes. The panel of judges endorsed the State's statements and animal rights in Israel recorded a great victory.

Following the petition filed by "Hakol Chai" through Adv. Doron Radai, Adv. Nitzan Gadot and Prof. Adv. Alex Stein, the State stated in front of the High Court of Justice that an industry of racing for gambling purposes will not exist in Israel without substantive legislation by the Knesset. In its statement, the government declared that it does not have the authority to advance the industry, and that the Knesset is required to decide on this matter.

In addition, the State undertook before the High Court of Justice to review the expert testimonies presented by "Hakol Chai", and it will consider the arguments raised against the racing industry in the organization's petition before the industry is advanced in Israel.

The organization rejoiced at the achievement, and said, "This is a significant achievement for animals in Israel. Unfortunately, until today, when industries that exploit animals were established, the animals' voice was not heard and they were not a significant consideration in the decision making."

In light of the State's statements, the organization withdrew its petition.