Granting Authorization to Prime Ministerial Candidate Kristen Michal to Form the Government
Session: 15th Riigikogu, Riigikogu's extraordinary session.
Date: 2024-07-22 14:10
Participating Politicians:
Total Speeches: 220
Membership: 15
Agenda Duration: 2h 20m
AI Summaries: 220/220 Speeches (100.0%)
Analysis: Structured Analysis
Politicians Speaking Time
Politicians
Analysis
Summary
The extraordinary session of the Riigikogu focused on granting powers to prime ministerial candidate Kristen Michal to form a new government. In his speech, Michal presented the government's plan, the main objective of which is to restore confidence in the country, particularly in the areas of security and the economy. He stressed that due to Russia's aggression and previously comfortable decisions, Estonia's finances are in a critical state, necessitating difficult and unpopular decisions. As key measures, Michal proposed the introduction of a temporary, broad-based security tax until the end of 2028 (covering turnover, income, and corporate profit taxation at a rate of 2%) to cover increased national defense expenditures (4 billion euros over five years). Furthermore, a comprehensive 10% reduction in public sector spending is planned over three years, alongside postponing the abolition of the 'tax hump' by one year. The introduction of the sweetened beverages tax will be abandoned. The opposition sharply criticized the cascade of tax hikes, arguing that it would further slow down the economy and that the government lacked a mandate from the people for these measures. The question was also raised regarding the previous statements of one ministerial candidate (Vladimir Svet) concerning the status of Crimea. Michal defended the choices, emphasizing that the alternative would be abandoning the defense of the state or cutting pensions. As a result of the vote, Kristen Michal received the authority to form the government.
Decisions Made 1
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal was granted the mandate to form the government with 64 votes in favor (27 against, 0 abstentions).
Most Active Speaker
Martin Helme (EKRE, right-wing) was one of the most active questioners, leveling sharp criticism at the government’s economic policy, the tax increases (which he dubbed the “green tax”), and the backgrounds of the ministerial candidates.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Today, the Riigikogu is set to discuss a single item on the agenda, during which Prime Minister candidate Kristen Michal will be granted the authority to form a government. The presentation may last up to 20 minutes, each member is limited to two questions, no negotiations will be held, and a vote will take place afterward.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal presents a plan designed to boost confidence in the incoming government, centered on strengthening Estonia's security and economy: implementing a fixed-term security tax, cutting costs and reducing bureaucracy, and investing in defense, manufacturing, and digital solutions so that Estonia remains safe, competitive, and a good place to live.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi thanks the prime ministerial candidate, announces that we have now reached the questions, and asks Aleksandr Tšaplõgin to come forward and answer.
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
A waitress is accusing the Reform Party government over the economic recession that has lasted for two years, claiming that the planned major tax hike will curb economic growth even further.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal claims that cuts and tax hikes slow down economic growth, and that various alternatives exist, but trimming pensions is not a good plan. Furthermore, if solutions are not found, there is a risk that the key to the Estonian state will be handed over to the Kremlin—therefore, we must remain within the European framework and secure defense and internal security.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Tõnis Mölder to take the floor.
Tõnis Mölder
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
The speaker thanks the chair of the session and the prime ministerial candidate, commends the work carried out in the environmental sector, and points out that they have maintained a clear stance since 2022: the Riigikogu must determine who is eligible to vote in local government elections, and the question of revoking the voting rights of Russian Federation citizens and holders of the 'grey passport' needs to be resolved with the utmost urgency. Finally, the speaker asks how the new coalition plans to move forward on this issue.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal emphasizes the coalition's principle, "everything is done together or not done at all," and confirms that he will introduce the revocation of voting rights for Russian and Belarusian citizens in local government elections. He states that support for this measure depends on whether there is anyone in the coalition besides the Social Democrats.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This is just a request to invite Jaanus Karilaid to the stage.
Jaanus Karilaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Jaanus Karilaid critically pointed out that the opening speech lacked concrete solutions regarding the demographic crisis and healthcare policy, arguing that the old policy would continue more brazenly and even more unjustly. He then requested three specific measures the Estonian government could use to stimulate the economy without relying on aid from Finland, Sweden, or Germany.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal said that the new coalition agreement complements the previous one and focuses on economic growth, fiscal policy, securing national defense needs, and improving people's livelihoods through regional entrepreneurship, emphasizing the simplification of regulations and the acceleration of procedures, as well as the intention to use funds designated for aid to Ukraine and develop domestic production, which will set a precedent for the future.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi asks Mart Maastik to take the floor.
Mart Maastik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Maastik is asking the prime ministerial candidate why he is justifying the new cascade of tax hikes by citing national defense needs, when in reality, the Reform Party’s most expensive promise requires half a billion.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal explained that the state borrows through bonds, and in the case of local bonds, the income goes to Estonian people. Repaying the loan is an expense. We are postponing the elimination of the tax hump by a year, and in 2026, the average wage earner will probably receive more money in hand.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speaker calls upon Andrei Korobeinik.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Andrei Korobeinik stated that the opposition has not proposed abandoning the indexation of pensions. He referenced Margus Tsahkna’s claim that the indexation is beyond the state’s means, and asked Kristen whether Eesti 200 is an opposition party or if he meant something else.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal pointed out that the Parempoolsed (Right-Siders) have written about this publicly, and representatives of Isamaa had told him the same thing previously. He added that there is nothing unusual about it, and they are free to decide on that position themselves.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Tõnis Lukas to take the floor.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Tõnis Lukas criticizes the Reform Party's rhetoric about "fixing the state," noting that there has been no progress across four consecutive governments. Despite the deficiencies in the coalition agreement, he emphasizes that the prioritization of education was not sufficiently highlighted, and questions whether the current candidate for Minister of Finance intends to dismantle the funding basis of Kulka (the Cultural Endowment of Estonia).
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi thanks everyone.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Tõnis Lukas asks if this is going to be the entire goal of the current government.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that the country needs to be put in order, and that the party must look inward to see whether sensible decisions were neglected during the good times or if they were simply spread too thin. He recalled that Isamaa has borne the burden of many necessary fixes across various governments, referencing the 2009 crisis and the proposals to cut pensions. He also added that no further changes were discussed regarding the Cultural Endowment agreements.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
He/She expresses hope that Kristen Michal will remain the Prime Minister for the next three years, rather than just being a prime ministerial candidate.
Andres Metsoja
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Andres Metsoja emphasizes that there are various methods for improving the economy, and tax hikes are one tool for filling the state budget during difficult times. He highlights the forest and the environment as national wealth, and asks whether the Estonian forest management development plan will finally reach the Riigikogu floor, thanks to the coalition, to provide a sense of security, or if there is a problem with the coalition partners on this matter.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Achieving economic growth requires stability, which in turn necessitates difficult decisions and amendments to forestry sector legislation. This is because the current uncertainty—driven by market downturns, Russia's aggression, and high interest rates—is hindering both investments and families' future planning.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invited Tanel Kiik to take the floor.
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tanel Kiik welcomes the continuation of the pension increase, but asks the prime ministerial candidate how much time and attention he is prepared to dedicate to the health sector, especially the development of a financing model and the execution of major investments.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
He confirmed that the government, working alongside ministers and experts, is tackling various sectors of Estonian life, striving to find a sensible balance to ensure high-quality, cost-effective healthcare, and to address the impact of the aging population and rising costs in the future.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invited Anti Poolamets to take the floor.
Anti Poolamets
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Anti Poolamets is accusing the prime ministerial candidate in connection with the Reform Party funding scandal. He points out that the candidate was previously distanced from it, yet there are now plans to reward them with the position of prime minister. He then asks how the scandal has impacted the candidate's reputation and whether they would be willing to readmit Silver Meikar to the party.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal asserts that scandals make you stronger, and that the case in question has been fully investigated and closed, adding that the position of prime minister is a reward that demands total dedication.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Jaak Valge is called to the stage at the beginning of the address.
Jaak Valge
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Jaak Valge notes that significantly more non-Estonian-speaking immigrants are arriving in Estonia from third countries than we are capable of teaching Estonian to through our schools and language courses. Simultaneously, we have 50,000 unemployed people, and productivity has been declining since 2021. The immigration policy in the coalition agreement is cryptic, and the Foreign Minister promises a flexible immigration quota, but he questions whether this will increase immigration and why.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that the coalition agreement sets out a strategy for the availability of skilled labor, and the structural problem facing the Estonian economy is a labor shortage. Therefore, immigration is necessary to boost production and services, which the state must control while ensuring integration, along with adherence to the country’s values and laws.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Riina Solman to speak.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman accuses the prime ministerial candidate of the Reform Party government’s uncertainty-sowing tax policy and the removal of benefits from families following the 2023 Riigikogu elections, and questions how the promised sense of security is actually being realized through tax hikes.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal emphasizes that a sense of security is vital for Estonia, and uncertainty must not be created, because decisions regarding taxes and cuts are being made under the mandate that extends to the 2027 elections, ensuring that the economy, the people, and our partners are assured and predictable.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Vadim Belobrovtsev to speak.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Vadim Belobrovtsev asks the prime ministerial candidate why her predecessor Kaja Kallas was unpopular, whether the new leader can do a better job, and whether the predecessor should have resigned sooner.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal said that Kaja Kallas is capable of bringing Estonia's diverse viewpoints and values to the world stage, and that is invaluable. He added that although the government is not always popular, the necessary decisions must be made together.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called upon Arvo Aller to speak.
Arvo Aller
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Arvo Aller's speech expressed concern that the tax hikes intended for security purposes will increase the final price, leaving people with less money to purchase food, and that the coalition agreement lacks any guarantee for food security.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal discussed the content of the updated coalition agreement, noting that the Ministry of Finance estimates the impact of income tax on households to be around 2–3%, and that this impact is distributed relatively fairly. He also stressed the importance of ensuring food security and adapting to climate change, including a smoother transition for agriculture.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Helle-Moonika Helme to the stage.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helle-Moonika Helme accused the Reform Party government led by Kaja Kallas, stating that their decisions have battered the Estonian economy, the energy sector, and people's livelihoods. Furthermore, she declared the new burdens recommended by the candidate to be cynical and unjust, demanding to know whether they would take responsibility if the results failed to match their promises.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that Estonia must take responsibility, investing in national defense, internal security, and energy security (such as the LNG quay and the modernization of energy infrastructure), raising taxes, and implementing a broad security tax to cover growing defense and internal security expenditures. He emphasized that the neighbor’s aggression is the reason, not the green transition or the policies of Kaja Kallas, and conservatives should stand behind this position.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Please welcome Kert Kingo to the stage.
Kert Kingo
AI Summary
Kert Kingo posed a question to the prime ministerial candidate regarding what would improve for the Estonian people under their government, and whether they would continue the same policies that have resulted in massive debt, violations of the rule of law, rising corruption, and tax hikes.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal is calling on Parliament to find common ground across all political parties. He stresses that the government aims to establish a sense of certainty, meet the increasing needs for better defense and internal security, and stabilize finances in order to secure future choices. He invites everyone to participate in this discussion.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi asks Aleksandr Tšaplõgin to come forward.
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
The presenter cites Swedbank's chief economist Tõnu Mertsina's assertion that the tax hikes proposed by the new government will primarily affect lower-income individuals, causing slower growth in consumption and consequently, smaller tax revenues.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that tax hikes and cuts impact the economy, described the symbiosis between income tax and VAT, and noted that the alternative—in the form of halting state functions, cutting pensions, or stopping the procurement of munitions—is not realistic.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Rain Epler is called to the stage during the address.
Rain Epler
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Rain Epler points out that the new coalition is the same as the previous one, and questions whether climate neutrality and security are merely a pretext used to channel funds into green initiatives, such as the development of wind farms.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Gratitude is simply expressed in speech by just saying "thank you."
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that the coalition changes do not stem from confrontation, but rather from the fact that Kaja Kallas secured a position at the table that is a source of joy and recognition for Estonia, and he emphasized that in the future, we must primarily invest in clean energy and a functional energy sector, because clean energy is a component of both the economy and security, and exports depend on sustainability and resource utilization—we will not begin building wind farms funded by a broad security tax.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi asks Mart Maastik to come to the stage.
Mart Maastik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Maastik noted that offshore wind farms and Rail Baltic require billions, which will be drawn from taxpayers’ pockets over the long term, and asked whether a new railway tax is being planned for the maintenance of Rail Baltic.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal said that there is no plan, but he will make improvements. He stressed the expected savings of approximately 3 billion euros and cheaper energy supported by offshore wind farms. He added that European support and the resulting tax revenue from Rail Baltic are positive for the budget, and that criticism should be directed at the part where no mistakes are being made.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Tõnis Mölder is invited to speak.
Tõnis Mölder
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tõnis Mölder thanks the chair of the session and the prime ministerial candidate, and asks whether the issue of the Competition Act has been discussed within the new coalition, and what their specific direction and plan is for advancing the draft legislation.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Under the terms of the agreement, the deadlock surrounding the Competition Act and the associated fine for Estonia will be resolved this autumn, jointly with the Minister of Justice and the parliament.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called Priit Sibul to the stage.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul thanks Kristen and sincerely wishes him success, but struggles to imagine how his term of office could successfully conclude given the difficult times ahead. He then raises a question regarding how the Reform Party defines its coalitions, referencing the issue of the 'red flag' and the Russian electorate. He compares this approach to the track record of Kaja Kallas’s government, where support for large families was increased, only for it to be deemed unreasonable after the government fell.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi thanks his good colleague.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul is asking whether, if the Social Democrats return to power, it will be possible to change the law again and restore voting rights for citizens of third countries.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stressed the need for cooperation between the coalition and the opposition, as well as constructive opposition, during these difficult times. However, he expressed his personal position that the voting rights of Russian and Belarusian citizens in local elections must be withdrawn, noting that achieving this would require a different coalition.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called Martin Helme to speak.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Martin Helme claims that the new government is a continuation government that will carry on the policies of Kaja Kallas’s government, bringing with it tax hikes, an attack on pensions, and an increase in income tax coupled with the abolition of existing benefits. Furthermore, although this measure is being called a national defense tax, he argues that it is, in fact, a green tax.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal called for a substantive debate, expressed profound disagreement with the proposed green tax, and introduced the concept of a broad-based security levy, which would remain in effect until the end of 2028. The proceeds of this levy are intended to fund necessities such as a drone wall for the borders, a generator for a hospital, and the procurement of equipment for the police, the precise impact of which will be verified with facts at a later date.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Jaak Valge is invited to the stage at the start of the address.
Jaak Valge
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Jaak Valge claims that Estonia's competitiveness has declined, and the reason lies in politics. He cites OECD data showing lower productivity compared to the other Baltic states, and finally asks what were the three main economic policy steps that went wrong during Kaja Kallas's governments.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal confirms that the coalition agreement outlines their actions: the state will not manage the economy or businesses, but will instead simplify regulations and the Public Procurement Act, channel funds earmarked for Ukrainian aid partly into Estonian industry, and boost business confidence, focusing on what he himself plans to do rather than the mistakes of others.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vladimir Arkhipov is called to the stage at the beginning of the address.
Vladimir Arhipov
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Vladimir Arhipov raises the concern that the land tax sum of 300,000–500,000 euros (Viimsi Parish, Maardu City, and Lääne-Harju Parish) unfairly collected from Harju County municipalities has still not been refunded, despite the fact that two ministers of the current government promised to return it at roundtables six months ago, and he asks whether these promises will be honored under the new government.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
He expressed thanks and stated that while he is not privy to the details regarding the promises or who made them, he trusts that the ministers, by continuing their work in their respective areas, will deliver on those promises, provided they align with the current coalition agreement and its updated version.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites René Kokk to speak.
AI Summary
Rene Kokk asks the prime ministerial candidate what principles and steps he will implement to halt the emigration of Estonian people and businesses, motivate those who have left to return, and bring our own people back to Estonia, rather than replacing them with foreigners.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
We are implementing a structural change within the government to establish a minister whose daily focus will be resolving the concerns of entrepreneurs. This minister will review complex regulations, simplify administrative procedures and planning processes, and attract major investors and investments to Estonia for the purpose of economic development.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Tõnis Lukas.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
He/She stresses the need for clarity in education policy and asks how the issue of teacher salaries will be resolved if the abolition of the tax bracket is postponed, whether the 15% increase in higher education funding will continue in the coming years, and whether he/she does not intend to implement the education minister's initiative for the extension of the Estonian language program.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi thanked everyone.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Tõnis Lukas's speech addresses the fact that nothing has been learned so far.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanks his dear colleague.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Tõnis Lukas emphasized that language requirements should not be imposed on teachers if they are not operating within the Estonian information space, and expressed hope that this would not happen.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Thank you, he asks that there be fewer questions within one question.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal confirmed that the transition to Estonian-language education must be mandatory, acknowledged Isamaa's changed stance, and promised to listen to the Education Minister's proposals, which the government will support, while education budget issues will be discussed in August and September as part of a comprehensive framework.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Riina Solman to take the floor.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman stresses the critical nature of Estonia's demographic situation and asks what the prime ministerial candidate's vision is for securing future generations. Furthermore, she asks how the candidate comments on the statement made by her party colleague, Signe Riisalo, regarding solving demographic problems through controlled immigration.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal emphasizes that in an uncertain world, the government must create a sense of security for families and businesses in order to increase trust, boost the birth rate and economic growth, and discuss immigration and workforce needs within the context of the economy.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Anti Poolamets.
Anti Poolamets
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Anti Poolamets posed a question to the prime ministerial candidate regarding the abolition of mandatory military service, recalled the Reform Party’s earlier commitment to national defense, and asked when and why the candidate had changed their position.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that the term “broad security tax” should be used, affirmed the optimal nature of Estonia’s current defense structure and the necessity of developing large-scale capabilities, particularly concerning ammunition and equipment. He also stressed that there are currently no plans to change the system, as the reserve army is a sensible and the best solution.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Vadim Belobrovtsev thanks [the speaker/audience] and asks whether the question is procedural or standard.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called upon Vadim Belobrovtsev to speak.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
At the beginning of the speech, the usual question was posed first.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He/She asks how the promised 5–3–2% reduction in public sector spending aligns with the existence of over 160 job advertisements in state institutions, most of which are aimed at office workers, and the arrival of the new minister's team.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal pledges to implement approximately 10% cuts across ministries over the next three years, carry out necessary restructuring, and crucially, avoid changing official job titles. The final decisions regarding these cuts will be made at the level of ministers and unit heads, with the exception of military personnel, police officers, and teachers.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Andres Metsoja to speak.
Andres Metsoja
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Andres Metsoja asks why the sweetened drinks tax was scrapped, and why the car tax wasn't. He wants to know if an analysis was conducted, what actually happened, and why it ended up going that way.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that the car tax has already been decided upon and sent to the president. Furthermore, the new government will have to implement a broad security tax, coupled with the taxation of corporate profits. No additional taxes are being discussed within the coalition; the current plan remains in effect until 2027, and the broad security tax will remain in effect until 2028. The sugar tax is not being discussed by the coalition.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The person who asked the question was expecting praise, but it didn't come this time. Ants Frosch, please.
Ants Frosch
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Ants Frosch points out that the section of the coalition agreement titled 'Modern Governance and Effective State,' specifically its subsection 'State Reform and Bureaucracy Reduction,' contains 14 points, but these points do not actually address genuine state reform. He references an article by Jüri Raidla and asks what specific steps are being planned to streamline the Estonian state apparatus.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanks.
Ants Frosch
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
He asks a rhetorical question about whether you are also nominating someone for Secretary of State.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
The State Reform must be multifaceted, focusing on reducing bureaucracy, simplifying procedures, and utilizing digital solutions and data reuse. This is necessary so that the government can be more strategic, better serve key sectors, and avoid wasting resources—for instance, police time spent processing minor infractions.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi asked Arvo Aller to take the floor.
Arvo Aller
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Arvo Aller points out that the tax increases are being called a "security levy," and questions what mandate was given to implement these taxes—including the car tax and the sweetened beverages tax—until 2028, and (what mandate was given) to secure a mandate in the next election.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
I believe the coalition agreement clearly states that there will be no tax on sweetened beverages. Furthermore, the implementation of a broad security tax—which encompasses VAT, income tax, and 2% of corporate profits—will help cover defense and internal security expenditures, comply with the European framework, and address the needs stemming from the situation in Ukraine.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Vice-Chair addresses Evelin Poolamets and asks her to come to the stage.
Evelin Poolamets
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Evelin Poolamets asks the prime ministerial candidate how the Estonian state budget has reached such a critical situation (noting that if they were not currently set to become prime minister, the deficit would stand at 5.6% of GDP by 2025), why they are planning drastic tax increases, and why they failed to advise Kaja Kallas.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
In times of crisis, defense and internal security spending rises, while revenues fail to keep pace. Consequently, the budget falls into deficit, necessitating tax increases and cuts to state expenditures—specifically services and benefits—so that everyone contributes their share.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invited Helle-Moonika Helme to speak.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helle-Moonika Helme accuses the Reform Party government of widespread corruption and of funneling new taxes "into a white plastic bag," while simultaneously criticizing the opposition and promises to cut pensions.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanked the audience.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He/She reminds us that we were once in government, and you fought against every single pension increase, and asks you to set the record straight regarding the story of this latest lie.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal asserts that the opposition and the Right-Wing have publicly proposed freezing the pension index or cutting pensions. He reminds listeners that Mart Laar demanded the same during the previous economic crisis, stressing that today's official stance is likely different on the issue.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Kalle Grünthal is invited to the stage.
Kalle Grünthal
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kalle Grünthal is asking the prime ministerial candidate how they would view the possibility of a minister who lies in the Riigikogu being held criminally liable in certain cases. He specifically referenced a draft bill that Grünthal had submitted during Kaja Kallas's time in government.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal noted that the Penal Code precisely stipulates for what and whom can be held accountable and how that procedure works. He emphasized that the precise deliberation of all circumstances is important, adding that the broad freedom of speech afforded to Riigikogu members is a hallmark of democracy, and he does not know of a single instance where a lying minister has been held accountable.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi asks Kert Kingo to take the floor.
Kert Kingo
AI Summary
Kert Kingo criticizes the prime ministerial candidate's statement regarding the “broad security tax,” noting that it essentially amounts to raising VAT, income tax, and excise duties, and asks whether “broad” will henceforth imply property, business, or other taxes, or if the scope is limited.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
He/She confirms that the coalition agreement specifies exactly what he/she described: turnover, revenue, and business profit.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech is simply a request directed at Rain Epler.
Rain Epler
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Rain Epler asks whether the security tax and the promises made in coalition agreements signify genuine security funding, or if the money might be directed elsewhere, thereby determining the country's future.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanked everyone.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that money will be added for national defense and security: 4 billion euros extra over five years, which must be covered by the projected annual tax revenue of 813 million euros and other taxes. He noted that although defense expenditures have grown, the taxpayer is still covering the NATO baseline level of 2%.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invited Jaanus Karilaid to take the floor.
Jaanus Karilaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
The speech raises the question of responsibility and transparency regarding the 1.6 billion shortfall in NATO defense plans and the government's handling of the matter, during which the claim is made that nobody saw or heard anything. It is also mentioned that Kaja Kallas is receiving a promotion, the climate minister is becoming prime minister, and the defense minister is remaining in office, prompting the question of how this responsibility is actually distributed.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal said that the coalition agreement contains a long list of economic development measures, which includes reverse auctions for electricity, grid reform, a major investment package, speeding up planning processes, and investing in higher value-added industries to create new jobs, improve access to renewable energy, and listen to entrepreneurs and industry associations to find further solutions.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Priit Sibul to speak.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul raised questions regarding the growth of the tax burden in the coming years, the duration of the broad-based security tax, and the plan to invest 1.6 billion into defense capabilities. He specifically asked how this relates to the previously described 4 billion, whether the understanding has changed or been clarified over time, and how much of the amount will be allocated between the defense sector and broad-based security, especially during the coalition negotiations.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal stated that the tax burden will remain at approximately 35–36 percent between 2024 and 2028, and the financing for the purchase of ammunition follows a process where the needs of the Defense Forces are presented to the Ministry of Defense and subsequently to the Government of the Republic. He noted that the proportion of ammunition procurement is leaning higher due to internal security requirements, and Estonia is leading Europe in ammunition purchases, which demonstrates our resolve and readiness to preempt attacks.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Martin Helme to speak.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Martin Helme claims that it is impossible to kickstart the economy due to high taxes, expensive electricity, and the green transition. He sees businesses closing down every day and criticizes the planned 160 million investment subsidy, asking which coalition party's financier this money is actually coming from.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
I believe that in order to improve Estonia's economy and standard of living, we need to focus on clean energy and higher added-value production. We must ensure that the environmental footprint of our output is measurable and promote investment into Estonia, because fossil fuels are not sustainable. Only clean energy and new industries will generate higher added value and exports.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Evelin Poolamets to speak.
Evelin Poolamets
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Evelin Poolamets inquired about the reasons for the infrastructure sector being separated from the Ministry of Climate under the new coalition agreement, questioning whether the ministry had failed to cope with its responsibilities or if the successor, Yoko Alender, was unfit to lead such a large ministry.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that the government’s setup has been significantly simplified—there is no need for major reorganizations, it only requires adding one minister and a couple of advisors to a single ministry—and bringing two ministers into the Climate Ministry provides more time for larger reforms. At the same time, he confirmed that Yoko Alender and Vladimir Svet are both capable in their respective fields.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Leo Kunnas to speak.
Leo Kunnas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Leo Kunnas asked the session chair and the prime ministerial candidate how much defense spending is actually increasing compared to the previous government’s decisions, noting that according to the RES, this year’s figure was supposed to be 3.2%, but due to the economic downturn, it is now slightly over 3.4%. He then asked for the size of next year’s defense spending, requesting precision to the nearest 100 million, which is approximately 0.1% of GDP.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal announced that the funding for ammunition procurement and internal security would be increased: approximately 450 million euros by 2026, over 300 million for the 2027–2028 period, plus about 40 million euros originating from the previous or incumbent government. Furthermore, defense spending will rise from 2.16% to 3.4%, totaling approximately 550 million euros. He added that the actual expenditure will be calculated definitively, not merely based on intentions.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invites Kalle Grünthal to the stage.
Kalle Grünthal
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kalle Grünthal asks the prime ministerial candidate whether they support establishing ministerial accountability in the Riigikogu for lying in certain cases, recalling that the right to free speech applies to members of the Riigikogu, not ministers, and noting that the bill is currently under review in the committee.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This is a brief thank you.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Minister candidate Michal apologizes for not having read the draft bill due to lack of time, reminds [us] that liability is determined by the Penal Code, and that the internal working process of the parliament and the deliberation by the Legal Affairs Committee proceed according to law, and further, that a minister’s responsibility is the same as that of a Member of Parliament, including the removal of that responsibility.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi requests the floor be given to Anti Allas.
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Anti Allas raises the question of whether Estonian leaders have been acting based on populist motives in recent years. He also highlights the issue of teachers' salaries and pensions, and asks what should have been done differently ten years ago to avoid the current predicament.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stressed that during a crisis, the state must take into account its capacity and revenues, and avoid making decisions based on the campaign period, because difficult times can follow easier and more promising periods, and the state must be prepared for both, ensuring confidence and stability.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invited Leo Kunnas to speak.
Leo Kunnas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Leo Kunnas requests a more detailed overview concerning the planned activities related to civil protection, internal security, and borders within the administrative area of the Ministry of the Interior, and specifically how these plans differ from the decisions made by the previous government.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that there is a comprehensive national defense list, approved by the previous government, which the Minister of the Interior can present separately and the details of which are managed by the State Chancellery. This list includes, for example, border control capacity, a drone wall, counter-intelligence requirements, cooperation between the Defense Forces and the police, and armaments.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invites Mart Helme to take the floor.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme claims that in three and a half years, Estonian society has reached the brink of collapse, and they wish to continue this with the mandate of the coalition agreement. He then asks if they have any wise person who could calculate in advance how large the tax burden is, so that people and businesses do not collapse under it.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal said that, in the era of an openly aggressive neighbor, it is crucial for Estonia to secure its defense and economy through a balanced budget and adherence to agreed-upon rules. He added that while he would listen with interest to other alternatives, he believes this is the best way to ensure Estonia is safe and that children can grow up here.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Ants Frosh to speak.
Ants Frosch
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Ants Frosch discusses the topic of state reform, highlighting the recent trend of senior civil servants leaving their posts, and asks whether adequate selection procedures, along with changes to the composition and process of the committee responsible for selecting top government officials, are planned, should the government be granted the necessary mandate.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal said that the structural details of the commission for selecting high-ranking state officials have not been discussed and could be addressed if necessary, but he holds a differing view regarding the state reform. He stressed that the coalition agreement stipulates a simpler, less bureaucratic, and business-friendly state, which includes cuts to functions as part of that process.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Helir-Valdor Seeder to deliver a speech.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
He notes that Estonia's public finances are in a difficult state, and the reasons stem from the external environment—such as the war and energy prices—which neighboring countries are also experiencing. However, Estonia has not chosen the same path of tax hikes as those countries, leading him to question what exactly went wrong: was it external factors or the Reform Party's previous policies? This distinction is crucial so that the correct diagnosis can be made before proceeding with a remedy.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi presented a statement of thanks.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
He/She asks whether all the blame has been placed on everyone else, except for the Reform Party.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal confirms that Estonia stands out from other European countries primarily through its understanding of future risks and the methods it uses to guarantee security, and as a small country, we will do everything necessary to ensure the country exists for our children as well.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech contains only the request: "Mart Helme, please!"
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme stated that not everything should be blamed on the war in Ukraine, arguing instead that fossil energy has been made more expensive due to the green transition and the CO2 tax. He then posed a question regarding cabinet minister candidate Vladimir Svet's comment on Crimea, asking whether Saul has now turned into Paul.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech is short and simply expresses thanks.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme implies that listeners are always eager to seize upon the topic of the Kremlin connection, and questions whether this "Kremlin card" isn't actually just a tool for manipulation.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi thanks and confirms that the question is understood.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
The text provided is merely a single sentence ('you in your coalition package'), and therefore it is not possible to create a meaningful summary from it.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
He says he's trying to make proper sense of all this confusion.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi apologized profusely, saying he was interrupting.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
He emphasizes that all members of the government must undergo security vetting and obtain state secret clearance, and they cannot serve as a government member without it.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Urmas Reinsalu to the stage.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu stated that the assertion that a minister can be a member of your government after having obtained a state secret clearance and passing a security check is odd. He then drew attention to the statements Svet made regarding Crimea and asked Michal what his stance on those statements is, and how that aligns with the astonishment expressed by representatives of the Ukrainian community.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanks the audience.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
The speech addresses the status of Crimea following the annexation and asks whether it could be a member of your government.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
I do not support anyone who has made such statements; Vladimir Svet must undergo a procedure that confirms his loyalty to the Estonian state and must maintain that loyalty. The ministerial candidate was nominated by the Social Democratic Party.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Helir-Valdor Seeder is invited to the stage to begin the presentation.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Helir-Valdor Seeder claims that Estonia is definitely the weakest in the Baltic region from a security standpoint. He points out that Latvia and Lithuania have reached an agreement for the on-site presence of allied personnel equivalent to a brigade, which Estonia lacks, and finally asks whether the new government has planned measures to address the demographic crisis, specifically the birth rate.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal said that the agreement focuses on the economy, the budget, defense, and regional entrepreneurship, as well as resolving the demographic crisis and discussing the birth rate, adding that Estonia ranks second in NATO in terms of defense investments and is one of the largest arms buyers among European countries in absolute terms.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called upon Urmas Reinsalu to speak.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu stressed that the Isamaa party does not support cutting pensions and champions the financial security of the elderly. He criticized major budget reductions and the use of unearmarked budget funds, and posed a specific question: how much will inflation increase in 2025?
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech simply expresses thanks.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu is debating whether a person earning the average salary should have to pay an additional fixed nominal tax.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal confirms that Isamaa does not support pension cuts, and the opposition shares the same viewpoint. However, the 2025 cuts are planned to be around 123 million euros (116 million of which comes from VAT), which is balanced. But this amount will grow in the following years, and if attempts are made to cover defense expenditures or implement a 300 million euro cut, it would mean a monthly drop in pensions of approximately 80 euros, along with the shrinking of state services and jobs. Therefore, an additional contribution is necessary to secure Estonia's future for coming generations.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invited Varro Vooglaid to speak.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid claims that the Reform Party lacks a popular mandate to plan tax increases, because before the elections they promised not to raise taxes, but then pushed them through after the elections. Now, with the new coalition agreement, they are planning tax hikes again. Therefore, they should either drop these plans or call a snap election to seek a mandate.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal asserts that EKRE’s call for snap elections is unnecessary for resolving crises, stressing the importance of parliamentary stability. He also proposes a comprehensive security tax designed to cover increased defense expenditures, the need for future munitions, and internal security costs.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi turned to Anti Allas and said, "Please."
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Anti Allas thanks them and says that it slipped in accidentally, and it’s not an issue.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi said that the situation wasn't serious, and asked Varro Vooglaid for help.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid questions whether tax hikes require a popular mandate secured during elections, and criticizes the notion that a mandate could be assumed without prior consultation, allowing them to later do whatever they wish.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal explains what can and cannot be put to a referendum, stresses the importance of taxes for streamlining state finances and defending Estonia, and confirms that fortifying Estonia is not a domestic conspiracy, but rather a reaction to aggressive neighboring behavior.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speaker is asking for Aivar Kokk to be invited to the stage.
Aivar Kokk
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Aivar Kokk asks a modest question regarding where the annual tax revenue of one billion euros is going: 400 million for defense expenditures, and the remaining 600 million—is it for exempting high-earners from income tax, or for something else?
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that 813 million euros will be collected through taxation, of which 550 million will be allocated to defense spending, which has increased from 2.16% to 3.4%. Baseline expenditures will be covered by other taxes and additional procurements in the areas of internal security, defense, borders, and other infrastructure.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Enn Eesmaa is invited to speak at the beginning of the address.
Enn Eesmaa
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Enn Eesmaa discusses Estonia’s potential future cooperation with Latvia, Lithuania, the Scandinavian countries, and the Baltic Sea region (including Poland and Germany) regarding Russia and Ukraine within the NATO–EU framework, and shares his current views.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal emphasized that our closest allies and the Nordic countries understand the threat posed by Russia and are ready to act together, and he was pleased that they are now NATO members.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invites Aivar Kokk to the stage.
Aivar Kokk
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
He/She refers to what was read in Postimees, stating that the future finance minister considers raising the income tax in the coalition agreement to be among the worst ideas, and asks how you feel about it.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal believes there is no alternative for financing defense needs, meaning we must cut spending and raise taxes. Although lower taxes would certainly be sensible, we simply have no other choice.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi informed the prime ministerial candidate that there were no further questions, but asked him to remain for a few more moments, as additional questions might arise for the chair of the session, and Rain Epler then requested permission to pose a question to the chair.
Rain Epler
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Rain Epler criticized the coalition, which has been governing Estonia for just over a year and is now seeking a mandate from the Riigikogu. He claimed that they have undermined democracy and the principles of the rule of law, and have interpreted legislation in highly inconsistent ways. He then questioned whether they were truly voting today on a five-year mandate for the Prime Minister and the government she leads, given that parliamentary elections are scheduled for 2027.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
He emphasizes that this was not merely a procedural question, and requests that the discussion be kept within the limits of procedural questions.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He raised a procedural question regarding why Vladimir Arhipov is currently non-attached and when the Riigikogu Board will allow him to become a member of the Centre Party faction.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi stated that the issues would be resolved as soon as the board convenes, since this is a procedural matter, and added that he would no longer take the floor and was yielding the floor to Helle-Moonika Helme.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helle-Moonika Helme asks whether the justification for every step taken involves referencing the outrages committed by the leader of the neighboring country and that state, and whether the new coalition—which is truly the old one—can commit its own dirty tricks domestically, and even more than the previous government did.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi expressed regret regarding the abuse of the right to raise a procedural question, noting that it is being used to present questions or make statements that are not intended for this particular phase.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Helir-Valdor Seeder proposes adding to the agenda statements from the parliamentary factions concerning the prime ministerial candidate’s responses and the coalition agreement. Furthermore, he suggests asking the candidate whether he intends to take these opinions into consideration, with the aim of strengthening parliamentary democracy and improving work efficiency.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi stated that those who follow the 'yellow book' emphasize adherence to it, but currently, the yellow book does not provide for the possibility of negotiations. If such a practice is desired in the future, the proposal should have been made earlier, because then the board would have been able to discuss it and the main chamber could have voted. However, the Isamaa faction confirms that negotiations have already taken place at the initiative of Urmas Reinsalu, and Eero Merilind now directs the question to prime ministerial candidate Kristen Michal.
Eero Merilind
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
The concern raised in Maaleht by a board member of the Health Insurance Fund regarding the health insurance budget prompts a question to the prime ministerial candidate: what solutions does he offer for improving the budget?
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
During the coalition negotiations, various options were discussed, including the transfer of the Health Insurance Fund's functions to other sectors and a review of its financing. The changes depend on the state's fiscal policy, and the debate concerning the Health Insurance Fund's funding will occur simultaneously with the government's budget debate.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Vice-Chair invites René Kokk to take the floor.
AI Summary
Rene Kokk asks the prime ministerial candidate whether the replacement of the new finance minister is due to Mart Võrklaev’s actions, which have completely wrecked Estonian public finances and the state’s economy, and whether previous claims that everything was in order were true.
Peaministrikandidaat Kristen Michal
AI Summary
Kristen Michal stated that Mart Võrklaev is highly competent and experienced, and although the work at the Ministry of Finance is often thankless and challenging, he will have the opportunity in the future to hold other ministerial portfolios and become a very respected colleague in the Riigikogu.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi explains that Mart's name was mentioned, even though he was referring to a different Mart, and poses a procedural question to Mart Helme.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme raises a procedural question, arguing that during a government transition, substitute members in the Riigikogu should step down, allowing those who won a mandate in the elections to take their place. He notes, however, that the individuals elected to the Riigikogu who are currently serving as ministers are not occupying their benches, which contradicts the Rules of Procedure and the Electoral Law.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi explains that the powers of the government members begin at midnight after they take the oath of office, and the extraordinary session taking place tomorrow, where the oath will be administered to both the members of the government and their alternate members, and he calls for a vote on granting the authority to form Kristen Michal's government.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Riigikogu granted Prime Ministerial candidate Kristen Michal the authority to form the government, with the vote tally being 64 in favor, 27 against, and 0 abstentions. Following this, the agenda for the extraordinary session was exhausted, and the sitting concluded.