The Community Relations Commission chief Vic Alhadeff has resigned from his position following pressure from Muslim groups protesting his email backing Israeli efforts to “defend its citizens” in its fight against “terrorists in Gaza”.
In a statement to the press Mr Alhadeff said: “It is with considerable regret that I have decided to resign from my position as Chair of the NSW Community Relations Commission.
“I have chosen to do so in the interests of the CRC and its important work in fostering social harmony within our society. It is clear that a briefing paper issued under my name inadvertently caused offence to some, and this is greatly regretted. While this was unintended, and despite the backing of numerous community leaders who acknowledged my record of goodwill, the reaction from some has become a distraction to the work of the CRC and the role of the chair.
“I intend to continue work as a representative of the Jewish community. I thank the government, premier and minister Victor Dominello for their unwavering support throughout my role as chair.”
An ABC report this morning said the Premier of NSW Mike Baird welcomed the resignation saying Alhadeff’s position had become untenable after the statements he made in his email.
The ABC report also said that Joseph Wakim from the Arab-Australia Council praised Alhadeff’s decision to quit.
Mehreen Faruqi, NSW MP and Greens spokesperson on multiculturalism called on the NSW government to appoint a Community Relations Commission chair who is committed to the spirit of the role.
Published in Indian diaspora magazine
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