The Haifa District Court on Tuesday granted the Vita Pri HaGalil factory an eight-day reprieve, rejecting the bankers� request to appoint a receiver immediately.

The courtroom was packed with employees of the factory and their families, explaining �we do not wish to become a burden to anyone. We just wish to continue working, earning a modest livelihood.�

The factory employees a large percentage of residents in Chatzor HaGlilit and municipality officials warn its closure would spike unemployment from its current 10% to 30%. In addition, area farmers and truckers earn their livelihood from the factory, and northern officials fear the closure of the factory will result in a decree of poverty for hundreds of area households.

Hearing their heartfelt petition, the court decided to grant a week extension in the hope a solution may e found that is acceptable to the bank and permit the veteran factory to continue operating.

(Yechiel Spira � YWN Israel)