Salaries and vacations added — who in Israel got improved conditions

A collective agreement has been signed in Israel for state veterinarians, providing for salary increases, bonuses, additional vacations, and a reform of the veterinary control system with a transition to digital technologies.

A new collective agreement for state veterinarians has been signed in Israel, significantly improving their working conditions. The agreement was concluded between the Histadrut, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Agriculture, and other agencies. Key points: salary increases — from April 2025, a monthly supplement of 500 shekels, a gradual increase of 3.5-6% by 2027, and an additional 3% from July 2026. Experienced specialists will receive one-time bonuses: 6,500 shekels in 2026 and 6,000 in 2027. District veterinarians will get a supplement of 1,000 shekels per month, project managers — 22% of salary. Social benefits: reduction of the work week from August 2026, an additional 8 vacation days in 2025-2026, increased health payments from 2027. The reform also includes a transition to digital tools, epidemiological monitoring, and risk analysis. Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture Oren Lavi emphasized the importance of veterinarians' work for food security. Union chairman Ofir Alkalai noted that the agreement establishes a system of positions and career advancement.