Session Profile: Helmen Kütt
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-10-16
Political Position
The political focus centers on social welfare and the well-being of the elderly, particularly the preservation of the 200-euro benefit for pensioners residing in care homes. There is strong support for local government funding and recognition for the continued indexation of pensions. Concern is voiced regarding the significant cuts at the Ministry of Social Affairs and the underfunding of the social sector, with the protection of vulnerable groups being prioritized.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the field of social welfare and care reform, utilizing precise figures (e.g., 6,700 pensioners, 52% cost coverage) and specific legal provisions. They reference authorities such as the Chancellor of Justice and highlight specific areas of concern (for instance, the discrepancy in the amount of pocket money retained in general versus special care). Furthermore, they utilize statistics comparing the poverty risk among Estonia’s elderly population with that of the European Union.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, detailed, and analytical, relying extensively on statistics and references to draft legislation. The tone is concerned and urgent, particularly regarding the vulnerability of the elderly and the underfunding of the social sector, emphasizing the sharing of their "concern." It utilizes both logical arguments and appeals to the issue of self-dignity.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the Riigikogu plenary sessions during the first reading of bills and has presented their concerns at a meeting of the Social Affairs Committee. Data concerning regular appearances or other activity patterns are unavailable.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is primarily aimed at local municipalities that leave too little of the pension for the personal expenses of the elderly living in care homes, citing the practice of retaining up to 95% of their income. Furthermore, concerns are raised regarding the government’s austerity policy concerning the Ministry of Social Affairs budget, as this is considered an underfunded sector.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker refers to the cooperation and the alignment of positions between the Estonian Association of Pensioners' Unions and the Estonian Association of Cities and Rural Municipalities in supporting Draft Act 508. They express the wish for a substantive debate both in the Social Affairs Committee and on the floor of the Riigikogu.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is on supporting local authorities (LGs) and addressing their varying capacities to provide social services, noting that these LGs are "highly diverse." It is emphasized that regional issues require tailored solutions, and support must be accessible throughout Estonia.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports social protection and the redistribution of resources to alleviate poverty among the elderly, stressing that the poverty risk for older people in Estonia is the highest in the European Union. It opposes cuts in the social sector and advocates for the continuation of pension indexing, considering the social and healthcare sectors to be underfunded.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around ensuring the well-being and dignity of the elderly in care homes, specifically focusing on their financial security and the ability to cover personal expenses. The text also highlights the vulnerability and high risk of poverty faced by older individuals and single parents.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priority is the support of Bill 508 (an amendment to the Social Welfare Act) to ensure the continuation of the pensioner's allowance for seniors residing in welfare institutions. Furthermore, it mandates reporting from local governments concerning the services rendered using the allocated support funds.
2 Speeches Analyzed