Agenda Profile: Helmen Kütt
Draft law amending the Act on Social Support for People with Disabilities and amending other acts related thereto (561 SE) – third reading
2025-05-21
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
It supports the draft law on social benefits for people with disabilities (561 SE) following its improvement, but remains strongly critical of the government's inaction regarding social sector funding and the recent cuts. The primary concerns are the shortage of places for specialized care services and the lack of the 25–30 million euros required to guarantee the operational reliability of the SKAIS system. This criticism is aimed directly at the government's actions and effectiveness in ensuring social welfare provision.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Possesses deep expertise in the social sector, particularly concerning the financing and management of special care services and the social benefits system (SKAIS). Uses specific figures (25–30 million, 800,000 people, problems 11 out of 12 months) and refers to details of the legislative process (changes regarding applications for special care services for 16-year-olds). Also highlights healthcare issues, such as the availability of treatment.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and serious, emphasizing the urgency of addressing critical social issues and the government's accountability. It employs both logical arguments (citing the necessity of SKAIS funding and the prior knowledge of previous ministers) and emotional appeals (the burden of worry placed on parents, and cuts affecting vulnerable groups). It thanks journalists for their role in highlighting problems within the social sector.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
An active participant in the legislative process, having attended five meetings of the Social Affairs Committee and repeatedly raised issues (e.g., the payment of pensions) during the information session. Requested three minutes of additional time at the start of the address. Refers to previous participation in the second reading of the draft bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong criticism was directed at the government and the Minister of Social Affairs, Karmen Joller, accusing them of budget cuts, inaction (specifically concerning SKAIS funding), and ignoring key stakeholders (the Estonian Chamber of Disabled People). The prime minister is also criticized for scapegoating Maret Maripuu, the head of the Social Insurance Board, for the SKAIS problems, while stressing that accountability rests at a higher level.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Strongly emphasizes the inclusion and active listening of stakeholders (the Estonian Chamber of Disabled People, the Association of Estonian Cities and Municipalities) in order to improve the quality of legislation. Acknowledges the question raised by the colleague (Lauri Laats) and confirms support for the draft bill. Expresses concern over the Minister of Social Affairs’ decision to discontinue regular meetings with the Chamber of Disabled People.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses on state social services and financing, mentioning the Association of Estonian Cities and Municipalities in connection with concerns regarding the draft legislation. The focus is specifically on the shortage of places for the state service (special welfare care) and the reliability of the SKAIS system.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It opposes the government’s austerity regime, especially when it jeopardizing the most vulnerable groups in the social sector and the reliability of the systems. It demands a national investment (25–30 million euros) to ensure the reliability of the social benefits system (SKAIS).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses intensively on the social issues facing people with disabilities, emphasizing the necessity of increasing the number of specialized welfare service places and ensuring the reliable operation of the social benefits system. It also highlights the importance of reducing the burden on parents and protecting vulnerable groups from budget cuts.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus is on the third reading of Bill 561 SE, support for which will be confirmed following a successful amendment regarding applications for specialized welfare services for 16-year-olds. It also highlights the necessity of resolving the law-related problems concerning funding and the shortage of service places, issues that remain subject to political decision-making.
2 Speeches Analyzed