Bill to institute 'Aliya Day' passes early vote

Bill sponsor Robert Ilatov says it is important because it salutes immigrants and thanks them for their contributions to Israel.

New immigrants from Ukraine make aliya, December 30, 2014 (photo credit: REUTERS)
New immigrants from Ukraine make aliya, December 30, 2014
(photo credit: REUTERS)
Legislation that would make the 10th of the Hebrew month of Nissan "Aliya Day" passed a preliminary reading in the Knesset Wednesday.
The bill would institute a day to mark immigration to Israel in schools, the IDF, the President's Residence, a special cabinet meeting and the Knesset.
Several bills to that effect were proposed by MKs Robert Ilatov (Yisrael Beytenu), Miki Zohar (Likud) and Avraham Neguise (Likud).
Ilatov said the bill is important, because it salutes immigrants and thanks them for their contributions to Israel, and will increase appreciation for the sacrifices they made to fulfill the Zionist dream.