Session Profile: Helmen Kütt
15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
2025-11-05
Political Position
The political position is strongly oriented towards social justice and the protection of vulnerable groups, especially the support of people with disabilities and tax relief. The speaker criticizes government policies that are either unjust (a 15-cent increase in benefits for severely disabled persons) or procedurally deficient (the lack of involvement of Tartu in the prison issue). The focus is value-based, emphasizing constitutional protection for large families and people with disabilities.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a profound understanding of the intricacies of the social welfare sector, particularly concerning the levels of disability benefits (severe, profound, moderate disability) and motor vehicle tax exemptions. They are well-versed in the technical aspects of the legislation, such as utilizing register data to implement tax relief and the required notice periods for contracts. This expertise is further confirmed by references to specific interest groups and feedback gathered from social workers.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaking style is formal and detailed when introducing draft legislation, but shifts to become emotional and defensive when addressing social injustices, directly referencing how people are offended and hurt. The speaker appeals to the experiences of frontline workers (referred to as 'angel workers'). In procedural matters, the speaker is sharp and demands intervention from the session chair if they feel they are being labeled or lectured.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The representative is active during plenary sessions, repeatedly posing questions to the minister and the rapporteur, and introducing the faction's proposed amendments. Reference is also made to earlier activities, such as questions submitted the previous day and work within the Social Affairs Committee. This pattern of activity encompasses both oversight (questions) and the initiation of legislation (amendments).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the government's political decisions (the minimal increase in benefits) and procedural errors, such as failing to involve the city of Tartu in the prison matter. The speaker also criticizes the rapporteur for resorting to labeling and moralizing, demanding that the chair maintain order and correctness. The criticism is fundamentally policy- and procedure-based, not personal, and centers on highlighting unjust outcomes.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is based on the parliamentary group, presenting amendments on behalf of the Social Democrats and referencing the co-presenters (Anti Allas and Madis Kallas). Close cooperation with civil society is essential, as the proposal for the tax concession was drafted directly based on the appeal received from the Estonian Chamber of Disabled People. The speaker asks their esteemed colleagues to support the submitted amendment.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker specifically focuses on the city of Tartu and the involvement of its residents in national decision-making, emphasizing the necessity of including both the city government and the council regarding the accommodation of Swedish prisoners. This demonstrates attention to the concerns and autonomy of local communities when implementing national projects.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic viewpoints advocate for targeted tax relief, specifically calling for an exemption from the motor vehicle tax for individuals with severe or profound disabilities. This position emphasizes social equity and support for vulnerable groups, as a vehicle is essential for them, rather than a mere convenience.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social sector is the primary focus, with the speaker serving as a strong advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, criticizing insufficient support payments (specifically, the 15-cent increase) and demanding tax relief. Attention is also drawn to the plight of individuals dealing with mental health issues and their caregivers ("angel workers"). The speaker stresses that, according to the constitution, people with disabilities are entitled to special protection.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on Draft Law No. 694, the Act Amending the Motor Vehicle Tax Act, to which two amendment proposals have been submitted. The speaker is the proposer of one of these amendments (No. 3), which specifically addresses tax exemption for individuals with severe or profound disabilities. Furthermore, they are also handling issues concerning the terms and termination of judicial sector agreements (specifically, those relating to the utilization of prisons).
6 Speeches Analyzed