Session Profile: Helmen Kütt
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-05-05
Political Position
The political focus is heavily directed towards the social sector, particularly the implementation of the care reform and the reliability of the pension system. Regarding the care reform, while the initial goals (reduced co-payment) are acknowledged, there is sharp criticism directed at the price surge and the inability of local governments to manage procurements. An urgent investment of 25 million euros is demanded for the critical IT system of the Social Insurance Board (SKA) to ensure the timely receipt of pensions, and the continuation of pension indexation is supported.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a thorough understanding of managing social welfare and pension systems. Specific statistical data is utilized regarding the impact of the care reform (e.g., 66.8 million euros in additional funding, a drop in the out-of-pocket contribution from 81% to 49–51%) and financial data (a 12.8% increase in the service fee). Furthermore, they are aware of the technical issues facing the SKA information system and the size of the required investment (25 million euros).
9 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaking style is analytical, detailed, and often anxious, particularly regarding IT system failures, which are described as being "on the verge of collapse." There is a strong reliance on facts, figures, and official sources (the National Audit Office, quotes from the Prime Minister). Although the speaker thanks those who raised the inquiry for bringing up the topic, he simultaneously criticizes the opposition's tone as "gloating," and calls for constructive cooperation.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active during plenary sessions, raising questions and formal inquiries based on recent events and media coverage (e.g., the delay of pensions in April, the article in Maaleht). The minister’s recent meetings (such as with the Viljandimaa Association of Local Governments) are also noted, which points to regular communication with stakeholders in the sector.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is primarily leveled against the government and administrative agencies (SKA) for their inaction and inefficiency, particularly regarding their failure to control the skyrocketing costs of care services and their neglect of critical IT infrastructure improvements. Other political parties are also being criticized for "gloating" over the failed reform instead of concentrating on finding actual solutions.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is calling for cross-party efforts to improve the care reform. They expressed readiness to support the Minister of Social Affairs in securing a 25 million euro IT investment, noting that the Prime Minister also supports this. This demonstrates an openness to cooperation when tackling specific critical issues.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The main focus is on national socio-political issues, but specific regional activity is also mentioned, referencing the minister's meeting with the Viljandi County Association of Local Authorities. The regional concern relates to the need for additional public transport resources due to the potential later scheduling of the start of the school day, which impacts county-wide transportation.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker supports state intervention to control market prices in the care services sector, recommending that local governments utilize public procurement to curb the price surge. Emphasis is placed on the importance of continuing pension indexation to ensure the elderly can cope with the rising cost of living. Large investments in national IT infrastructure are also supported.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker focuses on improving the well-being of elderly people, the availability of care services, and supporting informal caregivers (who are often considered to be women). It is emphasized that the state has an obligation to ensure a dignified life for those who established Estonia's independence. The timely payment of pensions is presented as a fundamental issue of social security and confidence.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker is focused on improving the implementation of existing laws and preparing for future amendments. The need for legislative changes following the conclusions of the National Audit Office’s audit of the care reform in the autumn of 2026 is mentioned. The immediate priority is an administrative and financial decision concerning the overhaul of the SKA information system.
9 Speeches Analyzed