Sunday 7 August 2005
Beth Weizmann Community Centre
306 Hawthorn Rd Caulfield South
Melbourne Australia
A formal debate has been organised by the State Zionist Council of Victoria
(SZCV), the first of a new series. To be held on August 7, 2005, one week prior
to the official date of Disengagement, the event will provide the community
with an opportunity to hear both sides of the issue as it is debated rigorously
by academics, communal leaders and competition debaters.
As the roof body of Zionist organisations in Victoria, the SZCV sees it as its
fundamental role to allow for open discussion in the community on critical issues
about Israel. Whilst the SZCV supports the official Israeli government of the
day and its policies, it is aware of the diverse political views within the
community.
“The Disengagement should proceed” will be debated by the affirmative
team including Dr Dvir Abramovich, Mr Johnny Baker and Ms Ronit Prawer. On the
negative team, Mr Geoffrey Bloch, Mr Sam Tatarka and Mr Victor Finkel will attempt
to negate the statement. The teams are not necessarily representative of their
personal views on the issue.
Chaired by Mr Mark Dreyfus QC, speakers will have set time limits and will lose
points for repeating arguments. A member of the Debating Association of Victoria
will adjudicate the debate, announcing the official winning team. Before the
adjudicator announces his/her decision, the audience will be given the opportunity
to vote for their choice.
In Israel the topic of the Disengagement is being debated within political,
communal and social circles and has elicited a flood of views, opinions and
criticism. The Australian community is no different to Israeli society with
members of the community vocalising their support for or against the Disengagement.
“Individual views aside, the State Zionist Council stands firmly in support
of the Israeli Government’s decisions” said Dr Danny Lamm, President
of the SZCV.
“In a democratic country like Israel or Australia the beauty of being able
to hear both sides of an issue and increase involvement of community members
in issues surrounding Israel is a wonderful thing. Whilst the State Zionist
Council follows the official Israeli Government’s line, we hope to increase
knowledge of the facts and issues, and create constructive discussion in the
community” said Lynne Wilson Public Affairs Director.
More Information
E- mail szc@szcvic.org or phone +61 3 9272 5544
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