Netanyahu’s ousted bureau chief still enjoying state benefits
Natan Eshel, who resigned after admitting he harassed a female employee, continues to receive a salary and a government car
A former close aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who was ousted from his post following a harassment scandal is still receiving wages and other benefits, Yedioth Ahronoth reported on Tuesday.
Natan Eshel agreed to leave his post as Netanyahu’s bureau chief in February after facing a Civil Service disciplinary board for persistently pursuing the attention of a female employee.
As part of the agreement, Eshel was ordered to not take part in any state affairs, to return his government car and mobile phone, and to receive his retirement package of NIS 120,000 as a single, one-time payment.
The sharp severing of ties with Eshel was intended to prevent any worker-employee relations developing after he left his position.
Eshel reportedly stayed involved, though, helping broker the surprise deal for the Kadima party to join the Likud-led coalition in a unity government last week. At the time, Netanyahu said he and Eshel enjoyed a close working relationship.
According to Yedioth, he is receiving a monthly wage of NIS 40,000 that will continue till the beginning of June. In addition, Eshel is still using his state-funded car and mobile phone.
The Prime Minister’s Bureau responded to Yedioth’s claims by saying that Eshel is receiving retirement benefits in keeping with his contract and Civil Service Regulations.
However, the Civil Service Commission reiterated the agreed conditions of terminating Eshel’s employment and said that if Yedioth’s claims prove to be accurate, the matter will be investigated by the commission and the Justice Ministry.