Knesset Speaker Joseph Shprinzak:

Members of the Knesset, tonight we will celebrate the Knesset’s birthday, the ninth year since its establishment.

We are today on the threshold of the tenth year of the existence of the state, a time for evaluating all the achievements of the State of Israel. This is certainly an opportunity for evaluating in a detailed and proper manner the achievements of the Jewish legislative authority.

Until then, a few short notices:

The ninth year of the Knesset’s activity had provided us with further proof that the initial national "planting" on the 15th of Shvat, 1949 was blessed with prosperity, progress, and it is bearing ripe fruit in the midst of the political life in Israel.

The ninth year at the Knesset was a year of much legislation and innovation. This year was blessed with much legislative produce. During its ninth year we also had significant political rulings at the Knesset.

During this time we witnessed the delightful event – the donation of Jacob James de Rothschild, which the Knesset received not only as an act of national generosity, but more as a superior revelation of deep faith in the future of the state and the importance of Israel’s higher institute of the people – the Knesset.

In the matter of international relations and connections, it is important to note that in this past year we were honored to welcome into this house a delegation from the parliament of Brazil and delegates of the French national assembly. May these important visits of representatives from friendly nations serve as a certification for the status of the Knesset.

Upon the threshold of the tenth year, a few ideas and suggestions arose regarding the system of elections to the Knesset. Whatever the solutions may be, our hearts are trusted and assured that their aim is one – strengthening the foundations of democracy and the spirit of freedom in Israel.

I greet the members of the Knesset on this Knesset’s birthday, and hereby invite them to our festive celebration.