Agenda Profile: Helmen Kütt

Inquiry Regarding the Care Reform (no 649)

2024-10-21

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

Political Position
The political position strongly supports state intervention in the provision of general care services, viewing this as a necessary and commendable step. The emphasis is placed on social justice and reducing the burden on relatives and pensioners. The policy focus is directed toward improving the role of local municipalities and the accessibility of the service, highlighting that the out-of-pocket contribution has been reduced.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the financing and organization of social welfare and general long-term care services. Specific terms are used, such as "general care service," "client contribution" (or "co-payment"), and the "service house project." Preference is given to service provision by the local governments themselves instead of private enterprise, with reference also being made to international procurement practice.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, respectful, and constructive, expressing appreciation for the reform. The address is logical and policy-focused, centering on service provision structures and funding. A specific and detailed question is presented at the end, requiring a written response if necessary.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct confrontation, as the speaker supports the ongoing reform. The criticism is aimed at the inefficiency of the previous system, where the burden of care fell upon relatives and pensioners. Furthermore, municipalities are criticized for their previously inconsistent approach when determining the personal contribution.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is respectful and supportive of the government-initiated reform, addressing the minister with due deference. The speaker engages constructively with the details of policy implementation, posing clarifying questions and requesting a written response where necessary.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is aimed at the municipal level, examining the diverse practices employed by local governments in providing care services throughout Estonia. Particular emphasis is placed on regions where the municipality runs its own care home, viewing this as both an easier and a more preferred solution.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views advocate for state intervention and increased social spending to lessen the financial burden on individuals when covering the costs of care services. There is a preference for delivering these services through municipal institutions themselves, rather than outsourcing them to private enterprise, even though the necessity of conducting procurements is recognized.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus is entirely directed toward the availability and funding of general care services, emphasizing the need to support people who are in the most difficult phase of their lives. The objective is to ensure that access to the service does not depend on the size of the relatives' pensions or the individual's own pension.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on monitoring the implementation of the care reform and subsequent investments. A specific priority is the opening of the next funding round for the service houses project and determining the associated funding amounts, which demonstrates interest in specific investment programs.

1 Speeches Analyzed