The Union of Youth Centers in the West Bank refugee camps sent a letter addressed to Sa’eb Erekat, Minister of Local Affairs, expressing its surprise at the recent establishment of “Service Committees” in the refugee camps without prior consultations with the Union. In their letter, the Union asked for urgent clarifications as to the aims and organizational structure of the new Service Committees, whether they will operate under the umbrella of UNRWA or as part of the framework of neighborhood committees launched by the PA Ministry of Local Affairs. In addition, UYC head and elected PLC representative Jamal Shati was asked to call a meeting on this matter in the Palestinian Legislative Council. Based on the answers obtained, the Union will decide its position and policy regarding the new PA committees. (al Nahar, 10/9/96).