We want to set a new agenda in Israeli society, in which employment is a value.

We are meeting the program's goals. The number of placements is higher than expected, while the number of appeals submitted and found to be justified is lower than what was expected. The program is being conducted in the spirit that we had hoped for.

There is no reason whatsoever to say that simply because somewhat is above the age of 55 or even 65 that he should be prevented from having a chance to return to the work force. The state must not give up and say that it will not handle these people. We have had many instances in which people aged 56 or 62 tell us that they want to work. Of course it is more difficult [to place them] - that's what the program is for.

I think our society has medical care kind of mixed up. They don't value it. Frankly, they don't see it the way we see it.

It sounds like we are trying to make new law here and we are really not.

We are trying to teach literature and literacy in a society which doesn't value it any more.