A written request for a vote of no confidence in Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakostale, submitted by 42 members of the Riigikogu.
Session: 15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Date: 2025-06-12 13:25
Participating Politicians:
Total Speeches: 272
Membership: 15
Agenda Duration: 4h 1m
AI Summaries: 272/272 Speeches (100.0%)
Analysis: Structured Analysis
Politicians Speaking Time
Politicians
Analysis
Summary
During the Riigikogu session, discussion centered on the written motion submitted by the opposition parties (EKRE, Isamaa, Center Party, SDE) to express no confidence in the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta. The motion of no confidence focused on three main topics: the plan to lease Tartu Prison to Sweden, the handling of the Pihlakodu rape case, and the delay in transposing the European Union Competition Directive.
Martin Helme, speaking on behalf of the initiators of the no confidence vote, accused the government and the minister of systematic lying, undermining Estonia’s constitutional order, and planning to bring Sweden's "most heinous criminals" (murderers, rapists, terrorists) to Estonia. Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta defended her actions, dismissing the accusations as unfounded and populist. She emphasized that preparations for the prison lease began during the previous government’s tenure, that the plan will create 400 jobs in Southern Estonia funded by the Swedish taxpayer, and that security risks have been mitigated. Regarding the Pihlakodu case, the minister stressed that she is legally prohibited from interfering in criminal proceedings, but she has initiated legislative changes and approached the Bar Association. Following a long and emotional question-and-answer session and negotiations between the factions, the motion of no confidence was voted down.
Decisions Made 1
The motion of no confidence against Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta was defeated (29 votes in favor).
Most Active Speaker
Martin Helme (EKRE, Right) was the most active speaker, delivering a presentation on behalf of the initiators of the no-confidence motion and engaging in heated debate, accusing the minister of systematic lying and incompetence. Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta responded to all questions extensively and in detail, defending her actions and dismissing the opposition's accusations.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi opened the first item on the agenda of the sitting, which was the written demand submitted by a long list of Riigikogu members to express a motion of no confidence in the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta. He then thoroughly explained the procedural order, which includes presentations, questions, discussions between parliamentary groups, and a vote, before inviting Martin Helme to the rostrum on behalf of the initiators of the no-confidence motion.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Riigikogu will address, as the first item on the agenda, the written motion of no confidence against the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, which was submitted by four parliamentary groups. According to the procedure, the initiators are allotted up to 20 minutes for their presentation and the minister is allotted up to 20 minutes; each member of the Riigikogu may ask the minister up to two questions, and a debate between the representatives of the parliamentary groups and the minister will take place before the vote.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Martin Helme accuses the current government of scandals and corruption, claims that there are plans to bring criminals into Estonia, and calls for answers and a vote of no confidence.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Deputy Speaker thanked the audience and invited the esteemed Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, to the Riigikogu podium.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta addressed the Riigikogu amid controversial accusations. She stressed that she stands for justice and values, detailing the work accomplished on adopting the Competition Directive, as well as in the fields of prisons and security. She also confirmed that she did not throw a sprat sandwich and that food must be respected.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta begins with a childhood story about a false accusation of throwing a sprat sandwich to illustrate the current situation where she is being accused of things that are either directly false or contradict her core values, such as responsibility and the principles of the rule of law. She refutes the accusations of delaying the Competition Directive, pointing instead to the inaction of previous ministers. She defends the transparent handling of the Tartu prison lease, which was initiated by the previous government, and emphasizes that, as Minister of Justice, she is legally prohibited from interfering in criminal proceedings, thereby protecting the foundations of the rule of law.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Vice-Chair gives thanks and announces that the audience has many questions, and Varro Vooglaid will speak first.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid claims that Estonian values are not shared and that the government’s actions—including the issue of bringing Swedish prisoners to Estonia—offend our sense of self-worth. He finds it particularly unacceptable that while it was initially stated that no negotiations would take place, the current message is that the matter has already been agreed upon and only requires formalization in the respective parliaments.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
According to Liisa-Ly Pakosta, for the sake of Estonia’s dignity and national security, we must prioritize a more efficient use of taxpayer money: instead of spending 12 million euros on maintaining an empty building, we should create 400 jobs in Southern Estonia to ensure security—a measure confirmed by international coverage and a high standard of human rights.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called Arvo Aller.
Arvo Aller
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Arvo Aller voices strong criticism against the government's arbitrary actions toward the populace, alludes to corruption, and questions how much longer this abuse of power will persist.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, confirmed that the minister does not intervene in criminal proceedings, and that the work is carried out by the independent Prosecutor's Office and the independent court. She thanked those who reported violations to the police and introduced the plan and the work of the expert body for the effective handling of violence and sexual violence committed in care homes.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta explained that while she is understanding of minor offenses committed by young people, the Minister of Justice is legally barred from intervening in prosecutorial proceedings—a principle fundamental to a democratic state. She simultaneously emphasized the crucial role of citizen reporting in detecting serious crimes and confirmed that she has initiated the development of legislative amendments to ensure the more effective prosecution of violence and the rape of vulnerable individuals committed in care homes, along with the implementation of harsher, deterrent sentences.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi gives the floor to Priit Sibul.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul asked the minister how he views the prison as an institution, referencing last Thursday's debate and the question Anti Haugas posed to Marek Reinaas about whether the prison is a social and educational facility or primarily a form of punishment. He also inquired about the coalition's broader understanding and what is planned if the parliament and the Swedish Riksdag grant authorization.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
A prison is the state's instrument of correction, which isolates individuals dangerous to society, costs about 3,500 euros per month for each inmate, and strives to ensure that those released do not return to crime. This effort is measured by the recidivism rate, and Estonia's figures in this field are very good.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This is a brief address inviting Evelin Poolamets.
Evelin Poolamets
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Evelin Poolamets emphasizes that the violence and rapes occurring in nursing homes require accountability. She references a 2023 Eesti Ekspress article and notifications from clients’ relatives and caregivers that management failed to take seriously, and asks the minister what sanctions should follow for these companies.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Liisa-Ly Pakosta emphasized that companies may be held responsible for crimes committed on their territory, spoke about meetings with victims and the emergence of new evidence, promised to strengthen the supervision of care homes and plan legal policy reforms, thanked the press and citizens for submitting evidence, and urged people to report incidents to the police so that similar horrors do not recur.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi asked Rene Kokk to come forward.
AI Summary
Rene Kokk stresses that a huge chasm exists between the value judgments of the Estonian people and those of the minister. He calls for an analysis of actions and results, citing examples such as the expressions "father is a man, mother is a man," the coalition's cuts to child benefits, and the plan to bring prisoners to Estonia in the name of security.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He said that a slip of the tongue might occur during the speech, and confirmed that in the Estonian Family Law, it is and will remain the case that the father is a man and the mother is a woman.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This is merely a request to invite Anti Poolamets to speak.
Anti Poolamets
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Anti Poolamets emphasizes that the minister must take full responsibility, ensure the necessary resources for the prosecutor's office, and allow it to do its job, because otherwise the impression is created that the prosecutor's office under your leadership is either incompetent or corrupt, as illustrated by the Lehtme case and the Port of Tallinn case, both of which began before you came to power.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Pakosta said that the accusations are completely false. Lehtme has never belonged to the same political party as me, and that individual took responsibility and resigned from the Riigikogu (Parliament). The prosecutor’s office has handled the matter, and due to the international nature of the proceedings, the case is pending trial. Furthermore, the Minister of Justice has no right to intervene in criminal proceedings or the filing of state charges, and the protection of the independence of the prosecutor’s office and the courts is the cornerstone of a democratic state.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta rejected the accusations leveled against her, clarifying the circumstances of the Lehtme case and stressing that the Minister of Justice is legally prohibited from interfering in the work of the prosecutor’s office. This prohibition holds true even if the international proceedings are time-consuming, as the independence of the judiciary and the prosecutor’s office, free from political pressure, is the defining characteristic of a free and democratic state.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech begins by inviting Heljo Pikhof to speak.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Heljo Pikhof accuses the minister of having an arrogant attitude and condemning values, sharply criticizing the minister’s vague answering style and "evasive maneuvers." Furthermore, addressing the issue of Tartu Prison, she draws attention to the contradiction that security improvements are being promised in a situation where the police force is already short of 200 people.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Heljo Pikhof criticizes the minister, stating that he is forcefully trying to create the impression that everyone present in the hall is a criminal, and she highlights the contradictions in the draft legislation. Furthermore, considering the issue of Tartu Prison and the shortage of police officers, she points out that no actual improvement in security has been achieved.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanks the audience.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Heljo Pikhof highlighted that current police officers are planned to be transferred to the prison service for recruitment purposes.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
According to Heljo Pikhof's statement, the plan is to transfer people currently working in the police force into the prison service.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This speech expressed thanks and recognition for a good colleague.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
The speaker brings up topics of rescue and survival and related questions, stressing that everyone is competing.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited the audience to ask questions.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He claims that to say security is improving in Tartu or Estonia is an outright lie, because the number of police officers on duty is decreasing.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech expresses thanks to Heljo.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Pakosta confirmed that while the media has discussed the potential rental of Tartu Prison to foreign countries as if it were a government plan, matters proceed strictly according to Estonian law. Furthermore, the prison service and the police are distinct professions, even though they provide mutual assistance to each other in high-risk situations.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invites Helmen Kütt to take the floor.
Helmen Kütt
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helmen Kütt criticizes the defense speech of the minister who faced a no-confidence motion, noting that it gives the impression that she was wronged and everyone else is to blame. Kütt asks directly whether the minister feels they should have acted earlier and more proactively on the Pihlakodu or prison issues—for example, by involving experts—before the situation escalated.
Helmen Kütt
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helmen Kütt criticized the manner in which the motion of no confidence was submitted, calling it awkward, and questioned whether things should have been handled differently—for instance, by convening an expert group before the prosecutor's office began its work or by discussing prison-related issues within the parliamentary factions.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, acknowledges that, looking back, something could always have been done better, but she emphasizes that she has acted as minister in the best possible way. She categorically refutes the sweeping falsehoods and factually incorrect accusations contained in the motion of no confidence, such as the creation of a system enabling abuse. While feeling uncomfortable due to this unjust attack, she remains ready to answer questions to clarify issues important to the Republic of Estonia.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, stated that while one could always do better, she has endeavored to make the best decisions. She refuted the false accusations and confirmed that she has not created a system that would allow for rape in care homes, adding that she is ready to answer questions and explain Estonia's interests.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invites Martin Helme to speak.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Martin Helme accuses Kulla Liisa of systematic cynical lying, mocking the Estonian people, and neglecting her duties as a minister and before the Riigikogu, and he claims that he does not intend to conduct oversight of the Prosecutor's Office.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanked the audience.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Therefore, you are not suitable for the position.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, refutes accusations of acting haphazardly, emphasizing both the rapid submission of the draft Competition Act and the long-term preparation for the prison lease, which began already under the previous minister’s tenure. She affirms that, as minister, she does not intend to break the law by interfering in criminal proceedings, but rather focuses on shaping legal policy, citing as examples the intent to draft legislation concerning violence in care homes and the expert body convened to protect those in need of assistance.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta stated that she does not intend to violate the law, and will adhere to the law and the principles of the rule of law. She added that she is focusing on addressing violence in care homes under the framework of criminal law, and the legislative intent proposal has been withdrawn from circulation.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called Reili Rand to the stage.
Reili Rand
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Reili Rand expresses concern that the processing of amendments to important draft laws—such as the Consent Act, the Gender Equality Act, and the Equal Treatment Act—has been delayed and the drafts classified without the involvement of relevant institutions. This raises questions about transparency and the silencing of official agencies, and she asks why this approach was chosen.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanked all participants.
Reili Rand
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Reili Rand highlights that policy making is taking place behind closed doors, and asks why these bills have stalled.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta confirmed that the consent law is proceeding as planned and will ultimately be adopted, stressing that a sexual act requires the consent of both parties. She noted that the importance of the law lies both in the consensus achieved within the Legal Committee and the feedback received from the public. Simultaneously, work on a second bill is ongoing, and the Office of the Chancellor of Justice will be strengthened to ensure victims receive prompt assistance.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta confirmed that the Consent Law is moving forward as planned to clearly stipulate in the Penal Code the requirement for mutual consent for a sexual act. She also stressed the need to strengthen the Office of the Chancellor of Justice to ensure faster and more effective assistance for victims, preventing them from being unnecessarily shuffled between different institutions.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called Andre Hanimägi forward.
Andre Hanimägi
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Andre Hanimägi says that the prison lease issue is more pragmatic than emotional, and the problem lies in coordinating the assessments and figures provided by the Prosecutor General, Kapo, and the police. Although the questions have been discussed in the Legal Affairs Committee, the entire process should have been more public and clearer in order to resolve the concerns and defuse the emotions before ratification.
Andre Hanimägi
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Andre Hanimägi admits that the prison lease issue is highly controversial, but approaches it pragmatically, noting that the problem lies rather in the fact that, despite the concerns raised by the Prosecutor General and KAPO (the Internal Security Service) and the vague profit figures, the signing is imminent. He then asks the minister whether the entire process could not have been organized more publicly and clearly, so that the concerns would have been resolved and tensions eased.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta profusely thanked the Chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee for the thorough discussion regarding the future of the empty prison building. She confirmed that the government aims to find an economically expedient solution that does not compromise Estonian security. This solution involves cooperation with a NATO ally to secure jobs and training for Estonian security structures, funded by the Swedish taxpayer, ensuring that all costs are covered and the Estonian taxpayer will not have to contribute additional funds.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
It was emphasized that the utilization of the empty prison building must create a secure and expedient export project for Estonia, funded by the Swedish taxpayer, aimed at maintaining and creating jobs and strengthening the country's security, rather than generating profit. Furthermore, negotiations will only take place with a NATO ally, and costs are covered by the model, without Estonian taxpayers having to bear additional expenses.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invited Helle-Moonika Helme to speak.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helle-Moonika Helme sharply criticizes the government's actions, citing an uninvestigated million-euro theft, rapes, and the importation of convicted murderers, while dismissing the government's explanations as "pure trolling." She stresses that the number of unemployed is at a record high (over 64,000) and casts doubt on the government's assertions that bringing in prisoners will reduce unemployment in Southern Estonia. She fears that qualified local labor will not be found, which will instead result in the mass importation of foreign workers.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helme accuses the government of trolling, claiming they plan to bring foreign labor, and even criminal individuals, into Estonia to reduce unemployment in Southern Estonia. He also questions where the workforce needed for 400 qualified jobs will be found and why such a large importation of foreign labor is necessary.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The presentation emphasizes that 400 additional positions in the security sector are being trained for in South Estonia, funded by Swedish taxpayer money. This initiative will provide both education and employment, and training will commence immediately once the agreement is ratified.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta is pushing back against claims that the Swedish prisoner agreement would primarily result in prisoners arriving in Estonia. Instead, she stresses that this is an extremely advantageous project that will create 400 public sector jobs in Southern Estonia and enable the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences to train international-level security specialists at the expense of the Swedish taxpayer. This represents a significant win for the development of Estonian security and education and should therefore receive support.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Riina Sikkut.
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Riina Sikkut believes the minister's response to the no-confidence motion was odd, and while she acknowledges the minister's right to set priorities, she criticizes the fact that, as a member of the government, the minister is prioritizing prison rent, the importation of cheap foreign labor, and preparing tax cuts for foreign online casinos, while simultaneously and constantly referring back to the work of the previous Isamaa minister.
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Riina Sikkut stated that the minister's priorities—namely, the prison rental scheme, making it cheaper to bring in foreign labor, and implementing tax cuts for foreign online casinos—seem odd. She stressed, however, that the minister has the right to set their own priorities rather than following in the footsteps of their predecessors.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi thanks.
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Riina Sikkut finds it odd that an exception cannot be made for VAT on foodstuffs, yet a tax cut for online casinos can be implemented, and she asserts that leasing prisons is a good and profitable future endeavor that will ensure Estonia's growth.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The building is empty, the layoffs have been completed, and the time constraint demands a solution. Consequently, the government decided to use Swedish taxpayer money to create new jobs and provide training for individuals working in the security sector, rather than spending 12 million euros on maintaining a vacant building.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Riina Sikkut has a question for the session chair regarding why the previous questioner was allowed to speak significantly longer than one minute.
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Riina Sikkut is accusing the Minister of Justice of spreading lies about her, pointing out that she was one of the most critical voices regarding the prison lease agreement—both within the government and in private conversations with Liisa Pakosta. She further notes that while the Social Democrats were kicked out of the government, the current administration is still continuing the prison lease negotiations with Sweden.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanks Riina.
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Riina Sikkut refuted the minister's claims that she had supported leasing out the prison, confirming that the decision was made on March 13, and asked those present in the chamber how it would be possible to correct the falsehoods that had been spread.
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Riina Sikkut refutes the claim that she supported leasing out the prison, asserting that she actually did not do so, and asks if there is any other way in the chamber to refute these falsehoods.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi stated that there are few opportunities regarding the presentation. If a question arises, it can be asked, but once there are no further questions, the only remaining option is to speak on behalf of the faction, and the time is limited.
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Anti Allas expressed concern that strong, narrow business interests might influence decisions during the implementation of the Competition Act, resulting in the Estonian people paying a higher price in the long term. He requested confirmation that no string-pulling has occurred and asked what measures would be taken if such manipulation were to surface.
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Anti Allas, while expressing his personal respect for the minister, stresses that the forceful passage of the Competition Law is clearly driven by strong, narrow business interests, which will result in higher prices for the Estonian people. He demands an explanation from the minister regarding the absence of any undue influence, and asks what the minister intends to do should these interests later come to light.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta confirmed that the decision regarding prison rental was consensual in September 2024, commending Social Democrat Riina Sikkut for her comprehensive handling of crucial details (such as the availability of medication and psychiatric patients). Crucially, however, she defended the transparency of the process of transposing the European Union competition law directive, categorically dismissing allegations that Estonian companies had influenced it or that she herself had pulled the strings during the directive's preparation in 2017–2018. She stressed that the draft was prepared by officials of the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs, taking into account the stances of the Chancellor of Justice and academics.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
According to Liisa-Ly Pakosta, the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, a consensus decision regarding the prison rental issue was adopted on September 26, 2024. She noted that the Social Democrats supported the decision, and she praised Riina Sikkut for raising her concerns. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of a transparent process and public involvement meetings, confirming that the European Union competition law directive will be fully transposed and, if necessary, they will go further. She also stated that she has only met with business organizations during public meetings.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Riina Solman to speak.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman criticized the dragging competition law proceedings and the division of responsibility among ministers, referencing the 2009–2022 period. She also raised questions regarding supplementary funding for KAPO (the Security Police) and the investigation of offenders' backgrounds, while calling for an end to the practice of blaming predecessors.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman sharply criticizes the minister for obfuscating the facts regarding the Pihlakodu case and competition law, emphasizing that responsibility rests with several previous ministers, not just one specific predecessor, and demands that the minister be held accountable for their actions. Additionally, the speaker calls for clarification regarding the criminal profile of prisoners being imported into Estonia and how the funding for their background checks is handled, warning the minister to stop passing the buck to their predecessors.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi asks the minister that the photographer not photograph the materials on the desks of the Riigikogu members, and he highlights the inequality of the space, requesting assistance from Liisa Pakosta.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta began the factual adjustment of the deadline for transposing the Competition Law Directive, emphasizing that this had fallen under the responsibility of the Isamaa ministers, but the main focus was on mitigating risks related to prison rent. She confirmed that organized criminals will not be admitted to Estonia and that the Estonian Internal Security Service (KAPO) will conduct a thorough background check funded by the Swedish taxpayer; furthermore, to mitigate risks, background checks have been established for all prison visitors, along with secure video meetings with family members.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta clarified that the deadline for transposing the competition law directive was at the beginning of 2021. To mitigate risks, red lines will be established to prevent high-risk criminals. She emphasized cooperation with the Kingdom of Sweden and the provision of additional funding to the Security Police Board. She confirmed that if resources provided by the Swedish taxpayer allow for proper control, the detainee can be sent back if necessary. Furthermore, a thorough background check will be performed on all prison visitors, and refusal to comply will result in a visiting ban. Simultaneously, as a digital state, video meetings with family members have been introduced to maintain contact and mitigate risks.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi announced that he would allow Riina Sikkut, Varro Vooglaid, and Riina Solman to raise a point of order, following which there would be a change of the presiding officer, and he would accept those questions.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid supports the ban on photographing materials on the MPs' desks and reiterates his proposal to install appropriate signage on the balcony. These signs would inform photographers about the restrictions outlined in the Riigikogu's house rules, thereby preventing the need for constant, after-the-fact reprimands.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid proposed putting small signs on the balcony prohibiting the photographing of materials on an MP’s desk in a way that makes them legible, arguing that this would be a better solution than constant reminders, even though the Riigikogu’s rules of procedure do not provide for such a possibility.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi announced that the Chancellery would begin considering the proposal regarding the proper installation of signs, deeming it feasible despite the rules, and simultaneously confirmed the photographer's correctness in refraining from taking pictures, before then yielding the floor to Riina Solman.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Chancellery is considering the proposal that signs could be displayed in a proper manner. This is feasible, although strict rules apply to the placement of signs, and we request this. The photographer was correct in that regard; he did not take any photos. Riina Solman, please.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman asks about the ethics of the minister's behavior and how to ethically guide the respondent's answer, citing previous ministers and emphasizing that they are targeting a person who is not present and cannot defend themselves.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi emphasizes that a minister’s responsibility for their actions and decisions continues even after their term ends, while simultaneously acknowledging that political references inevitably contain subjectivity, and concludes his address by yielding the floor to Varro Vooglaid.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi stated that the minister remains accountable even after leaving office, both for their actions and for the decisions made during that period. He stressed that there may be subjective choices when it comes to references, and he now directs the question to Minister Varro Vooglaid.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid accuses the minister of distancing himself from the activities of the Prosecutor's Office and washing his hands of the matter, emphasizing that although the Prosecutor's Office is legally independent, it operates under the administrative domain of the Ministry of Justice, and the minister holds an oversight function. Therefore, the minister should actively meet with the Prosecutor General to inquire about the status of criminal cases that are of public interest but are stalling, citing the Lehtme case as an example.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid notes that although the Prosecutor's Office is independent according to the law, it still operates under the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs, and as minister, you exercise control over the Prosecutor's Office. He then asks what you have done over the course of this year to advance the Lehtme case and why it is not progressing.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
I fully agree with your question. I described the actions I have taken using the tools available to the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, and how I have improved legislation. I also confirmed that I expressed my views at the general assembly of the Prosecutor's Office held in Rapla on April 11, and subsequently gave an interview to Raplamaa Sõnumid, stressing that the discussion involved the entire general assembly of the Prosecutor's Office, and was not limited solely to the Prosecutor General.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
This is a short, direct request to invite Rene Kokk to speak.
AI Summary
In his motion of no confidence, Rene Kokk leveled sharp criticism, questioning why the value judgments of the current government do not align with those of the Estonian people. He pointed to the party’s falling support percentage and the minimal backing demonstrated by the minister. He further speculated that this deep divide could be caused by gender quotas and the standardization of duties across the police, rescue, and defense forces—measures which he argued mislead the public and, in connection with which, an €8,500 tax burden on the populace was cited.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
“Your time!” means that it is now your turn and you need to take action.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller thanked the audience.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta stated that she has corrected factual errors and is prepared to answer all questions, adding that this discussion will help clarify matters. She referenced the experience gained from the Netherlands regarding the prison leasing topic and the satisfaction of the local community. She acknowledged the existing concerns and promised to address them step-by-step, while emphasizing that although there may be differing viewpoints on gender equality issues, it is essential to remain respectful of dissent.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta is correcting factual errors and refuting claims that she accused anyone of misunderstanding, while simultaneously defending the prison rental policy. She emphasized that she has received strong public support on the issue, and confirmed that international experience shows that prison rental brings benefits (jobs) to local communities without security risks, promising at the same time to mitigate all concerns step-by-step and to respectfully maintain her differing opinion on the topic of gender equality.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller invites Jaak Valge to speak.
Jaak Valge
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Jaak Valge points out that while renting out Tartu Prison promises 400 new jobs, this clashes with Urmas Varblane's assertion that the total number of jobs should be decreased. Furthermore, the insufficient staffing levels in the police and defense forces make using one flawed move to justify another completely baffling.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Justice and Digital Affairs Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta stated that while crime rates in Estonia have dropped and current prisons may seem superfluous right now, the need for them could re-emerge in the future. Simultaneously, we must create smart, export-focused jobs, as the prison service brings foreign taxpayers' money—specifically Swedish money—into Estonia, which constitutes pure export.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta defended the construction of Tartu Prison, citing the significantly higher crime rate of the 1990s (460 murders per year compared to the current 25) and the necessity of replacing Patarei Prison. She stressed that although there are currently vacant prison places, this situation might not last, pointing to the Netherlands as an example, and added that jobs related to the prison service constitute pure export revenue, which is not comparable to the need for domestic skilled labor.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller invites Züleyxa Izmailova to speak.
Züleyxa Izmailova
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Züleyxa Izmailova accuses the minister of a lack of transparency and of concealing analyses commissioned using public funds, emphasizing that as a member of the Riigikogu, she is not permitted to view them. Furthermore, she is appealing to the Data Protection Inspectorate to verify whether the reclassification of these analyses for internal use is legally permissible.
Züleyxa Izmailova
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Züleyxa Izmailova expressed indignation and embarrassment regarding the minister's answers, accusing him/her of ignorance of the law and sharply criticizing the concealment of an analysis concerning the draft omnibus equality act, which had been commissioned using public funds. To gain access to this analysis, the member of the Riigikogu had to appeal to the Data Protection Inspectorate.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The message says that now is your time, and you have the opportunity to act.
Züleyxa Izmailova
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Züleyxa Izmailova raises a pointed question concerning the concealment of information subject to public disclosure and the obstruction of parliamentary oversight, demanding an explanation for the violation of the law.
Züleyxa Izmailova
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
He asks what data the law allows to be made public, and why parliamentary oversight is being obstructed.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
This is merely an expression of gratitude, encapsulated by the word "Aitäh."
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He noted that the question is not related to the statement, but he has repeatedly answered and provided legal references demonstrating that the action was taken pursuant to the law. He further emphasized that not all preparatory materials for a draft bill must be shared with the public, which is why the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs made this choice, and we are now moving forward.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Arvo Aller calls upon Tanel Kiik to speak.
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tanel Kiik sharply criticizes the minister, reproaching him for the lack of both empathy and transparent, honest communication regarding sensitive topics such as the Pihlakodu case and the prison rental plan. This failure, he argues, created confusion regarding profit and turnover and, according to a large portion of parliament, has led to an unsuccessful outcome.
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tanel Kiik criticizes the minister, stating that he has failed to grasp the seriousness of sensitive issues, and advises him to be more transparent, honest, and clear in his communication.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta attributes her heavy workload and extensive initiatives to the historically critical security situation, which demands a maximum contribution. She confirms that, in her role as Minister of Justice, she handles society’s most challenging issues, such as the Pihlakodu case, for the resolution of which enhanced supervision and the tightening of laws have been initiated, and states she is prepared to explain all complex aspects.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Pakosta confirmed that given the current historical security situation, we must do everything possible and not leave any tasks unfinished. She noted that she has initiated oversight, drafted an intention to develop measures for preventing violent crimes and stiffening penalties in nursing homes, convened an expert council, and shown compassion to the relatives of Pihlakodu.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Tanel Kiik asked the chairman a procedural question.
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tanel Kiik requests procedural assistance because his question did not reach the addressee, and the response contained entirely irrelevant content.
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tanel Kiik expressed dissatisfaction with the procedural order, as his repeated question concerning the fact-based and transparent handling of topics remained unanswered by the minister. The response received was instead an incoherent monologue regarding the minister's workload and an odd historical example about prisoners from the Päts era. Consequently, the speaker requests that the technical support and microphone functionality be checked, assuming the minister clearly did not hear the question.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Arvo Aller confirms that the technical systems are functioning and no supplementary materials are required. The minister has a pencil and paper and may note down questions if needed, and elaborate on the previous answer during the response. Anti Poolamets, please proceed.
Anti Poolamets
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Anti Poolamets is criticizing the unprofitability of the Sweden–Estonia prisoner agreement: In Sweden, prison occupancy is over one hundred percent and the annual loss amounts to 21 million, and Article 53 at the end of the agreement obligates Sweden to compensate for expenses incurred in Estonia in connection with asylum applications, which, according to him, creates a danger that rapists and murderers might unexpectedly seek asylum after serving their sentences.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta confirmed that the agreement to bring Swedish prisoners to Estonia is economically very beneficial for Estonia, as costs are low thanks to the country's modern and digital prison service. Sweden will cover all additional expenses (including transport and officials' salaries), and she stressed that despite the theoretical possibility of asylum applications, no detainee will be released into Estonian society.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta explains that the total cost of the Estonia–Sweden prison deal is based on a price floor of 30.6 million euros and 8,500–11,500 euros per inmate, of which Sweden covers transport, the stay of Swedish officials in Estonia, and potential asylum costs, emphasizing that no inmate will be released into Estonian society and that Estonia's modern, digitally efficient prisons help keep costs low.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller invites Martin Helme to the stage.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Martin Helme accuses the opposing side of inadequacy and of planning to bring prisoners here to exchange POWs with the Russians. He warns that such ideas compromise Estonia's security and the reputation of the prison service, and calls for the presentation of a single bill that would overturn the minister's ban on tasking the prosecutor's office.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He/She is shocked and absolutely resolute against this proposal, which calls for political interference in the work of the independent prosecutor's office and the courts, warning that it would resemble the political interference in court proceedings that took place during the Russian occupation.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller listens to the presenter until the end, but the noise in the chamber continues, and Martin Helme says: "Stop talking nonsense, it's embarrassing!"
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The proposal drew a reaction, and Mart Helme claims that the rule of law is non-existent, and the Ministry of Justice is actively working to ensure that the rule of law is completely trashed.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller requests that the Minister be heard out completely, and he expresses his thanks.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta is explaining to the Riigikogu a draft bill that seeks to abolish the ban preventing the minister from interfering in the work of the Prosecutor's Office. Mart Helme reacted with a protest, stressing the constitutional duty to oversee the Prosecutor's Office.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller asked that the minister be heard out, but Mart Helme interrupted him, accusing the minister of demagoguery, and a voice was heard from the chamber: "What is going on?"
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller (Mart Helme) intervened repeatedly, accusing the minister of engaging in demagoguery and treating the listeners like fools, all while ignoring repeated requests to maintain order and allow the minister to finish his address.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
During the address by Liisa-Ly Pakosta, the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, it was stressed that Section 9 of the Prosecutor's Office Act prohibits the minister from exercising supervision over the Prosecutor's Office. Mart Helme's comment regarding the cessation of deception and demagoguery was also noted.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The minister's words are listened to completely, and subsequently, they are reviewed in the transcript.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, confirmed that the minister must not have oversight over the Prosecutor's Office and is not proposing to repeal the section, emphasizing the independence of the Prosecutor's Office and the courts, and the continuation of Estonia's democratic rule of law.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
This is a brief address to Jaak Aab, and the word "please" is used.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He apologized for not answering the other participant's question about wartime posts, noting that prison service employees do have wartime positions. He added that, stemming from the experience of Ukraine and the experience of the prison service, one must observe and learn on the spot what is happening there—and we have learned.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller calls upon Jaak Aab to speak.
AI Summary
Jaak Aab, putting his hand on his heart, inquired whether the preparation of the draft amendment to the Competition Act involved using any drafts, talking points, or analysis provided by a well-known law firm. He stressed that, in his view, the bar association is an interest group whose interests could be reflected in litigation.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Pakosta emphasizes that while she may have a different assessment of the Bar Association, it remains a crucial partner in ensuring the quality of legislation. Furthermore, the Economic Affairs Committee only finally began considering some of the Bar Association's proposals during the actual drafting process of the bill.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta rejects criticism directed at the Estonian Bar Association, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring high-quality lawmaking. She further explains that the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs submitted the draft bill in question to the Riigikogu (Parliament) without taking the Bar Association's proposals into account, which is why the Economic Affairs Committee only later began considering those proposals from scratch and partially incorporating them.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The presenter asks that Helle-Moonika Helme be called to the stage.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helme criticizes the ministers’ repeatedly stated claims and their trolling of the public, condemning their self-justification and the assertion that Estonia needs to import murderers for the sake of exports or security. He cites the low occupancy of prisons as an example and stresses that the actual work should involve solving substantive problems, not trolling the audience.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The speech emphasizes that it is time for the listeners to act.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He noted that even the phrase "a state-beneficial education project" came up here.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta said she cannot agree with the accusations based on the facts, and studies conducted in Estonia demonstrate that the work of probation officers is effective and helps prevent new crimes.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller invites Ester Karuse to speak.
Ester Karuse
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Ester Karuse questions how bringing Swedish murderers and rapists to Tartu Prison will increase the security of Southern Estonia, given that the plan requires hiring hundreds of new prison officials, while the Police and Border Guard Board already has nearly 200 unfilled positions, and she asks where these 400 new people will come from and who will protect the streets of Southern Estonia.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
According to Liisa-Ly Pakosta, the Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, 400 additional security-related jobs will be created in Southern Estonia. Only low-risk inmates will be accepted, who will acquire specialized training for this purpose. Their training and the creation of these jobs are financed by Swedish taxpayer funds to increase the level of security expertise in Estonia—a goal that has been pursued together with the Social Democrats since the very beginning.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller invites Reili Rand to speak.
Reili Rand
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Reili Rand is inquiring with the minister about the timeline for processing two critical draft laws—the Consent Act and the merging of the Equal Treatment and Gender Equality Acts. She emphasizes that the latter is crucial for ending discrimination against the elderly and people with disabilities, and she sharply criticizes the fact that this draft has been sitting untouched in a ministry drawer for ten months.
Reili Rand
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Reili Rand emphasized the necessity of initiating proceedings for both the Consent Act bill and the draft legislation combining the Equal Treatment and Gender Equality Acts. She also asked when these would reach the floor and why the unified law intended to end discrimination against the elderly and people with disabilities has been pending for ten months already.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta confirmed that the Consent Act will reach the Riigikogu during the 2025 autumn session, adding that age-based discrimination has never been permitted in Estonia—it is prohibited under Article 12 of the Constitution, and the Chancellor of Justice and the court are addressing this. However, the exact date of entry into force depends on the work plan being drawn up by the government.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller invites Heljo Pikhof to speak.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Heljo Pikhof emphasizes that there is very strong competition in the labor market, and hundreds of positions remain unfilled for the PPA (Police and Border Guard Board) and the prison service, which is compensated for by auxiliary police officers and overtime. Given the security situation, it would be an absolute sin to weaken these agencies, as it would reduce people's sense of security, increase the burden on the courts and the prosecutor's office, and lengthen medical waiting lists.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Your time has come.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He stated that the maintenance cost has increased from 12 million to 20 million, and many lies have been heard here today.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta announced that the funding for filling the vacant positions will come from Swedish taxpayers' money. This initiative will help boost security in Estonia and maintain robust cooperation with security institutions, serving as a joint solution for all parties involved to mitigate the resource deficit.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta defended the Social Democratic Party’s support for the prison rental project, asserting that health-related concerns have been resolved and that this constitutes the best solution. She confirmed that the project brings necessary resources to Estonia as export revenue channeled through Swedish taxpayers, which will enable the government to fill critical, security-related positions in the Estonian public sector that have previously remained vacant due to lack of funding.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Heljo Pikhof posed a procedural question to the presiding officer.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Heljo Pikhof regrets that what Riina Sikkut said has been twisted, and that Riina Sikkut did not support anything.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Arvo Aller addresses the presiding officer of the sitting.
Heljo Pikhof
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Heljo Pikhof stresses that while she was in government, the impression was created that the transfer of prisoners to Tartu Prison was her doing.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller stated that the question had been directed to the presiding officer of the session, that he had not said anything regarding Riina Sikkut, and that the minister presented her viewpoint and called Riina Solman.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman accuses the minister of political bias, arguing that he selectively targets Isamaa ministers while simultaneously ignoring the role played by three Reform Party justice ministers regarding the prison lease and competition law. She also sharply criticizes the violation of the fundamental values of the rule of law when a leading prosecutor, repeatedly caught lying, remains unpunished, thereby giving him a sense of untouchability from the official platform, and proposes the restoration of partial supervision over prosecutors as a solution.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman, in her speech, emphasizes the importance of the rule of law and judicial independence, and urges consideration of restoring partial oversight of prosecutors who have repeatedly lied and presented false information in court.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He/She emphasized that previous governments had discussed the issue of the vacant prison building in Tartu, acknowledged Lea Danilson-Järg for her work, confirmed the importance of transposing the ECN+ Competition Directive, informed the Riigikogu (Parliament) that the bill had passed its second reading, and expressed hope that the problem would soon be solved, allowing Estonia to avoid the embarrassing fine.
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats stresses that the debate over the correctness of bringing in prisoners must be dropped, and attention should instead be focused on the business plan and direct profit, asking exactly how much this will contribute to the state budget, given the numbers: 300 prisoners, a contract covering the maintenance of 600 individuals, and figures between 30 and 60 million euros.
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats, emphasizing that the Centre Party does not consider the importation of prisoners to be the right direction, sets the moral debate aside and demands a purely numbers-based explanation from the minister regarding the business plan and direct profit, seeking to know exactly how much revenue will accrue to the state budget from the contract for the upkeep of 300–600 prisoners, taking into account the aforementioned figures of 30 and 60 million.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller invites Lauri Laats to speak.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta responded to questions concerning the supervision of prosecutors and the Swedish prison agreement, confirming that the Prosecutor General is committed to ensuring accountability for misconduct and that the Minister will intervene if necessary. Regarding the agreement, she stressed that it constitutes security cooperation, not a business plan. Furthermore, the Swedish state will cover all associated costs (a minimum of 30.6 million euros annually, plus a 3.5% index), and the Estonian taxpayer will actually benefit through additional tax revenue and the avoidance of maintenance costs for an empty building, which total 12 million euros.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta first emphasized the supervision of the Prosecutor's Office through the Prosecutor General and the integrity of Astrid Asi. She added that the security cooperation between Estonia and Sweden is a non-commercial agreement, the costs of which have been carefully planned so that the Estonian taxpayer does not incur additional expenses, and that the state will not be responsible for the 12 million euros for the empty building complex.
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tanel Kiik is criticizing the government's actions concerning the Pihlakodu case, the prison lease, and the competition law, noting that there is no apparent defense of the interests of the Estonian state and its people.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller called Tanel Kiik to the stage.
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Tanel Kiik emphasizes that the motion of no confidence stems from a broader problem—a pattern of government inaction and lack of clarity—citing as examples the Pihlakodu case, the prison lease agreement, and the competition law being pushed through for narrow business interests. He argues that the government is defending partisan and narrow business interests, rather than the interests of the Estonian state and its people, a fact confirmed by the critical sentiment held by the majority of the public.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He stated that the context behind the no-confidence motion is much wider, and the opposition is always unhappy with the government's performance. However, the government is doing its job to the best of its ability, and the real issue is simply the opposition's typical, ongoing dissatisfaction.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta concedes that the current vote of no confidence is rooted in a broader context—the opposition's standard dissatisfaction with the government's performance. However, she stresses that the government is doing its job to the best of its ability, adding that if they were to resign over every piece of criticism, no government would last even 24 hours.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller invites Jaak Aab to speak.
AI Summary
Jaak Aab is demanding a categorical answer from the minister regarding whether any input, drafts, or comments concerning the content of the pending draft bill were received from prominent law firms before it was made public and sent to coalition partners, asking for only one word in reply: yes or no.
AI Summary
Jaak Aab asks before the Riigikogu whether, prior to the public disclosure of the current draft bill under consideration and its distribution to the coalition partners and to himself, any member of Eesti 200—be it from the membership, leadership, staff, officials, or advisors—received any input regarding the content of the bill from a well-known law firm, and he requests a clear yes or no answer.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Thank you! I confirm that the new draft bill, which I sent out on August 6th last year, was prepared by officials from the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs, and I personally did not write a single section of it.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
This is just a call for Ester Karus to perform.
Ester Karuse
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Ester Karuse explained to the minister that police officers are taking on additional work in the prison service and other sectors to supplement their income. She stressed that these specialized posts cannot be filled by individuals sourced from the unemployment register, given that the work demands specific training (in weapons and special tactics). She concluded by requesting concrete forecasts concerning staffing, salaries, and motivational measures.
Ester Karuse
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Ester Karuse points out that in reality, many police officers work extra hours in prison service, as well as performing ambulance and rescue duties, which require additional funds and impact their family time. Furthermore, they must possess specialized training and skills for using service weapons, handcuffs, batons, and gas, and for implementing special techniques. She therefore emphasizes that they must not be underestimated and requests the presentation of realistic figures and forecasts concerning personnel, their salaries, and motivational measures.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Liisa-Ly Pakosta stated that they are not planning to draw staff away from the police force, and career shifts between the two services are considered natural. However, 400 new positions are opening up (in addition to support and catering roles), some of which may be filled by employees who were laid off in Tartu last year. She also emphasized the excellence of the prison service and noted that their salary costs are covered by the Swedish taxpayer.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta refuted accusations that personnel were being diverted from the police force, asserting instead that career shifts are common and that police officers are only working overtime hours in prisons. She stressed that joining the prison service requires training from the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences, for which additional funding has been allocated. She further confirmed that the project will create 400 new jobs, with the salary costs being covered by Swedish taxpayers. Pakosta expressed hope that valuable employees who were laid off last year will find an opportunity to return, concluding by emphasizing her profound respect for Estonia's world-class prison service.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The Deputy Speaker invites Lauri Laats to speak.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He mentions the training money in the process, and apologizes.
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats posed a critical question to the minister regarding the existence of an impact analysis and the figures for direct revenues and expenditures, and asked what type of sentence dictates which categories of inmates are placed in closed prisons in Estonia.
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats faults the minister for failing to present figures on the direct economic impact (revenues minus costs) and suspects that the draft legislation lacks a proper impact assessment. He further demands clarification regarding which sentences qualify prisoners for the minister's described low-risk criteria, allowing them to be placed in an Estonian closed prison.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He emphasizes that Estonia's security is not for sale, and the contract stipulates the revenues and the risk margin. They will only accept high-risk inmates who have committed extremely serious crimes alone and are serving long sentences, while the inclusion of individuals with health problems, the elderly, or those requiring psychiatric treatment is strictly ruled out.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, explained the financial aspects related to the prisoner reception agreement, emphasizing that while precise cost accounting is difficult due to unforeseen expenses, the agreement includes a sufficient risk margin, not profit, confirming that Estonia's security is not for sale. She further specified that only low-risk criminals serving long sentences would be accepted, provided they committed the crime alone. At the same time, the elderly, individuals with complex illnesses, or those requiring psychiatric treatment are excluded to prevent exceeding projected costs and ensure maximum security.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller invites Vadim Belobrovtsev to speak.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Vadim Belobrovtsev is criticizing the Ministry of Justice’s decision, made last autumn, to stop translating laws into Russian. He emphasizes that there are roughly 400,000 Russian speakers in Estonia, and continuing to translate labor-related legislation into Russian would help reduce workplace disputes and boost awareness of people's rights. This decision, he notes, was justified by an annual saving of 12,900 euros.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Arvo Aller’s speech emphasizes that your time is now.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Vadim Belobrovtsev asks why approximately two hundredths of a percent of the Ministry of Justice's budget was used.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The state is consistently reducing the use of the Russian language, as free machine translation is available on every screen, and in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Research and the Estonian Language Institute, Estonian-language representation and the high quality of legal translations are ensured, including for the Russian language.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Arvo Aller criticized the side conversation, stating that it was distracting both the respondent and the questioner. He then announced that Urmas Reinsalu would be next and expressed hope that the side conversation would not continue.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu emphasizes that political responsibility is paramount in a democratic state governed by the rule of law. He then asks whether the state failed the relatives in the Pihlakodu case and whether the state has apologized, questioning who is actually bearing the political responsibility. He notes that responsibility doesn't mean the communication managers of the Prosecutor's Office resigning; this is an issue that must be addressed at the government level.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
He announces that it is your time, and thanks the audience.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta first acknowledged communication errors within the Prosecutor's Office, apologized to the former head of public relations for the inappropriate connotation that had arisen, and confirmed that a search for a new communications manager was underway. She then turned her attention to the Pihlakodu case, expressing deep condolences to the victims’ loved ones, affirming the efforts of both the ministry and the Prosecutor General to rectify the situation, and commending the work of attorney Olavi-Jüri Luik. Finally, she urged the public to immediately submit any additional evidence to the police to ensure a thorough investigation and a just court judgment.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, stated that the communication of the Prosecutor's Office must be improved and that the office is currently seeking a Head of Communications. She also apologized for the inappropriate connotation, met with the relatives of the Pihlakodu victims, and urged them to present new evidence to the police so that the court can finally reach a just decision.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller calls upon Priit Sibul to speak.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Honourable Minister, I am trying to understand this "green corridor" through which criminals may come to Estonia from Swedish prisons, and if the condition is that they must not have ties to Swedish society, then citizens of which country are coming here?
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Pakosta confirmed that the draft agreement does not involve Estonian citizens, and those excluded include individuals who have an entry ban to Estonia or who have been declared wanted. Furthermore, the agreement will not be discussed before its ratification by the parliaments of both countries; instead, the risk posed by every detainee will be assessed and thorough background checks will be performed.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Arvo Aller addresses Aleksei Jevgrafov and presents a request.
Aleksei Jevgrafov
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Aleksei Yevgrafov thanks the minister, notes that he receives a lot of criticism, but disagrees with some of the accusations, and asks whether the minister sees opportunities for development in the work, improvement of shortcomings, and how he intends to act in the near future.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs, Liisa-Ly Pakosta, said that she will tackle Estonia’s upcoming issues responsibly, endeavor to explain them more thoroughly, and is considering writing opinion articles to clarify matters for the public, even if the solutions aren't the most palatable.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
This address is merely an invitation for Vadim Belobrovtsev to speak.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Vadim Belobrovtsev is revisiting an earlier issue, suspecting that the financial justifications provided last fall were untrue, suggesting that the minister's conduct was dishonest, and stresses that technical translation solutions cannot yet be relied upon in situations demanding 100% accuracy.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Vadim Belobrovtsev says that the financial reason cited last autumn wasn't true, suggesting that the whole truth wasn't told at the time. He also emphasizes, however, that while technical translation solutions are available, their one-hundred-percent accuracy is not yet guaranteed.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
The Estonian state has already begun implementing savings measures, starting with the removal of the Russian language from government websites. Furthermore, the Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs, in fulfilling its assigned budget cut task, showed that it is possible to save money even there.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller requested that Urmas Reinsalu be allowed to speak.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu voiced his concern that the state has failed to respond to his inquiry regarding the state's political accountability in the Pihlakodu case, and that members of parliament have not been provided with the Pricewaterhouse analysis, cost calculations, or the confidential risk assessments prepared by the PPA (Police and Border Guard Board) and the Security Police Board (Kaitsepolitseiamet). He stated his desire to evaluate the quality of security risk mitigation, while also questioning the potential volume and risks associated with the serious criminal individuals who might enter the country under the terms of their five-year contract.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
This speech emphasizes that now is the audience's time, and concludes with a word of thanks.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
According to Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta, she is taking a clear moral stand against sexual assault and, as a minister, will take every possible step. These steps include initiating plans to amend the Penal Code, supervising state-appointed protection, establishing a working group that collaborates with officials and experts, offering sympathy to victims' loved ones, and ensuring the timely handling of new evidence and documents so that similar horrors do not recur. She simultaneously emphasized the importance of thorough background checks and international cooperation.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta, taking clear moral and political responsibility in the Pihlakodu case, issued a harsh condemnation of the mistreatment of vulnerable people, initiating amendments to the Penal Code and establishing an inter-agency working group to prevent such horrors in the future, and simultaneously confirming that the transfer of long-term Swedish prisoners to Estonia will proceed under strict security and the control of the Estonian Internal Security Service, ruling out their release in Estonia and emphasizing the value of international cooperation.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
During Arvo Aller's speech, Aleksei Yevgrafov is invited to come forward and speak.
Aleksei Jevgrafov
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Aleksei Jevgrafov is asking the minister for an assessment of the situation at the Narva border, expressing concern that people are forced to wait in queues for an entire day or even longer, and questioning whether their fundamental rights are being protected.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
Liisa-Ly Pakosta stated that she currently does not have a comprehensive overview of the situation at the Narva border, and that question should be directed to the Minister of the Interior. However, she agrees with everything the Chancellor of Justice has stated on the matter.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
A brief request is made to Helmen Kütt in the speech.
Helmen Kütt
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helmen Kütt thanks the Chair and the Minister, noting that the start was aggressive and that false claims must be refuted. She emphasizes that empathy only developed after the media published the evidence and after the support provided by the defense counsel speaking on behalf of the victims, and she asks when the Minister met with the relatives.
Justiits- ja digiminister Liisa-Ly Pakosta
AI Summary
He/She expresses gratitude, recalls a recent meeting with loved ones, and apologizes for not being able to provide the date at the moment, even though it occurred very recently.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller offered thanks and announced that the questions had concluded, then declared the start of the debates and invited Tõnis Lukas of the Isamaa faction to take the floor as the representative of the four factions.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
He is asking for three more minutes.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Tõnis Lukas emphasizes that the government lacks the people’s trust and mandate, a deficiency manifested both by a lack of strategic vision (especially regarding the long-term dangers of mass immigration and the relocation of Swedish criminals to Tartu, which threatens the university city’s reputation) and by constant flailing in day-to-day issues. Therefore, in order to restore confidence, and considering that they only enjoy the support of 14% of eligible voters, the government should either resign or call snap elections.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Speaking about trust, Tõnis Lukas notes that confidence in the government has been lost, calls for snap elections and the restoration of trust, and warns of long-term dangers, including mass immigration and security, while simultaneously noting that only about 14% of eligible voters support the current governing parties.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
This is a brief address to thank you for your time.
Tõnis Lukas
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
You might achieve that, but it is not the case right now, and you will have to reapply for it.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The address refers to the motion of no confidence, and Mart Helme is called upon on behalf of the EKRE faction.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme is accusing the Reform Party and Eesti 200 of mounting a defensive ring around the Pihlakodu scandal. He is demanding that the minister publicly intervene and that the Prosecutor General be summoned to address the public's dissatisfaction regarding the Pihlakodu and Lehtme cases, as well as prison issues. He emphasized that this represents political control over the government, not interference by state officials. Concurrently, he labeled Estonia a "banana republic" and highlighted the problem of prisons and asylum applications, suggesting that these issues could cause released inmates to re-offend.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme delivered sharp and emotional criticism aimed at Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta, accusing her of evading responsibility regarding the Pihlakodu scandal and the prison issue (specifically, the threat of asylum for Swedish prisoners). He demanded that the government establish political control over the activities of the Prosecutor's Office, labeling the actions of those currently in power as the Reform Party's mutual protection scheme and calling Estonia a "banana republic."
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller asks for three more minutes.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme accuses the government of cynical lying and sociopathic narcissism in connection with accepting Swedish prisoners, stressing that bringing 600 egregious criminals to Estonia is expensive for the taxpayer, grants them priority medical services, and drastically increases the security risk—especially in a situation where the release of these prisoners could lead to a social catastrophe like the one in 1940—which is why he demands the resignation of the minister and the government that has lost the trust of the entire public.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme warned that releasing 600 heinous criminals from prisons could endanger Estonia's security and cause a social catastrophe. He also accused the government of lying and called for the minister to resign.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The message "Your time!" urges listeners to take action.
Mart Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mart Helme called for an end to the lengthy discussion and urged them to leave both Stenbock House and the ministry building, and politics altogether.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller announced that the next speaker is Lauri Laats, on behalf of the Estonian Centre Party Faction.
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats highlights the government's crisis of confidence and the absence of statesmanship, calling for immediate snap elections. He also sharply criticizes Justice Minister Pakosta for the concealment and dishonesty surrounding the plan to bring Swedish prisoners (including serious criminals) to Estonia, arguing that this endangers Estonian security and reduces the country to a cheap service provider. Additionally, he accuses the government of failing to prepare policies and conduct impact assessments on other critical issues, such as tax increases, and draws attention to the Pihlakodu case and the prosecutor's office's lack of action.
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats stated that Estonian society lacks trust in the government and statesmanship, and he is calling for snap elections because Minister Pakosta’s plan to bring up to 600 prisoners to Tartu, including sex offenders and serious criminals, endangers the safety of citizens. He added that this demonstrates a lack of preparation and the Minister’s dishonesty before the Riigikogu (Parliament) and the public, while also citing the context of the Pihlakodu case and other procedural deficiencies that the state must confront.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller asks for three extra minutes.
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats accuses the minister of inadequate exercise of authority and the prosecutor's office's decision not to initiate criminal proceedings against the legal entity, calls on Riigikogu members to join the motion of no confidence filed against Liisa-Ly Pakosta, and claims that Eesti 200's long-term plan – prisoner tourism – is unacceptable.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The Deputy Speaker thanked the previous speaker and invited Lauri Läänemets to speak on behalf of the Social Democratic Party faction.
Lauri Läänemets
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Läänemets requests an extra three minutes.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller requests three additional minutes.
Lauri Läänemets
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Läänemets stated that the Social Democrats had filed the motion of no confidence based on three issues: the transfer of Swedish prisoners to Estonia, the Pihlakodu case, and the implementation of the Competition Act. He further claimed that these actions primarily serve narrow business interests and do not benefit the people or entrepreneurs of Estonia. He added that the government has failed to react adequately and lacks the necessary resources to provide mental health services.
Lauri Läänemets
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Läänemets confirms that the Social Democrats have signed the motion of no confidence against the Minister of Justice for all three reasons cited. He sharply criticized the advancement of narrow business interests through the competition law, the Minister's inability to ensure an adequate investigation of the Pihlakodu case by the prosecutor's office, and the transfer of Swedish prisoners to Estonia. This move, he stated, endangers national security and burdens Estonia's already limited mental health resources, essentially turning the country into a business enterprise providing a service to Sweden at the expense of the safety of its own people.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The call says your time is now, and you must act.
Lauri Läänemets
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Läänemets thanks the audience.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The Deputy Speaker offers thanks and, on behalf of the Reform Party Faction, invites Madis Timpson to speak.
Madis Timpson
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Madis Timpson remarks that the motion of no confidence is generally without merit, and that the minister is actively addressing the prison issue, which is a reasonable topic for discussion. He simultaneously stressed that the Estonian prison system is world-class and the country operates under the rule of law, adding that the coalition is seeking a new mandate.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Irja Lutsar represents the Eesti 200 faction and submits a request.
Irja Lutsar
Profiling Eesti 200 fraktsioonAI Summary
Member of Parliament Irja Lutsar stated that Liisa Pakosta has initiated many projects and that reforms are urgently required in Estonia. She called for support for Pakosta, asserting that healthcare services are available in prisons and that the state should be directing resources, perhaps even into Estonian healthcare, rather than focusing on a vote of no confidence.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Arvo Aller's statement pointed out that while Urmas Reinsalu's specific positions were not addressed during the negotiations, his name did come up, and he was asked to provide a two-minute response right there and then.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu stated that the motion of no confidence is fundamentally a question of parliamentary confidence. He emphasized the limits of Minister Liisa Pakosta’s responsibility regarding the Pihlakodu matter and affirmed the essence of political responsibility. He further added that the agreement simultaneously concluded with the Kingdom of Sweden was intended to facilitate the expulsion of criminals, but current information points specifically to criminals with an immigrant background, and the agreement stipulates that there must be no individuals in Estonia who have family ties in Sweden.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller delivers the short message, "Your time!", emphasizing that it is now the listeners' time to take action.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu points out that nearly ten countries in the European Union have a surplus of prison capacity, including Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Bulgaria, Malta, Spain, and Germany.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
A brief address expressing thanks and saying, "The floor is yours."
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu notes that a couple of days before the signing of the ministerial agreement, no answer had been received as to why these countries are not so ready to conclude such agreements, and that question remains hanging in the air; Isamaa calls upon...
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller thanks Urmas Reinsalu.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
He is calling for a vote in favor of the no-confidence motion and urging them not to sign that agreement next week.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller calls for a vote on the motion of no confidence against Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta, stressing that it requires a majority of the full composition of the Riigikogu.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The Riigikogu did not pass the vote of no confidence against Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs Liisa-Ly Pakosta, even though 29 members of the Riigikogu supported the motion (0 votes against, 0 abstentions).
Lauri Laats
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Lauri Laats said the Reform Party didn't show up, and maybe they didn't hear the summons, or perhaps there's some other issue on a different matter.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Arvo Aller said that the signal should be audible in all offices and corridors, and the session has ended.