Agenda Profile: Signe Riisalo
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Social Welfare Act and Other Acts (732 SE)
2025-10-15
The 15th Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position is one of strong support for the government's social policy, particularly the amendments to the Social Welfare Act. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of continuously raising the subsistence minimum to keep pace with the absolute poverty line, for which resources have also been allocated in the state budget strategy for the next four years. This support is expressed on a policy and results basis, recognizing the government's commitment to long-term planning.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates deep expertise in social welfare legislation and procedural details, explaining the limits of subsistence benefits, the calculation formulas for the support provided to single pensioners, and the transition of funding for sign language interpretation services. Technical terms such as "subsistence minimum methodology" are used, and reference is made to a CentAR study aimed at updating this methodology. Separately, the benefits of second pillar pension payments for people with reduced work ability are explained.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and procedural, particularly when communicating the commission's decisions. However, it shifts in the second address to become conciliatory and appreciative, highlighting the consensus achieved in the social sector. The arguments presented are primarily logical and fact-based, drawing upon the commission's consensus and budgetary documentation. The speaker expresses optimism and satisfaction regarding the stability that has been achieved.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in legislative work, serving as a representative and rapporteur for the Social Affairs Committee, and participated in the committee meeting on October 6th. This pattern of activity involves providing detailed responses to questions raised by Riigikogu members (e.g., Grünthal, Kiik, Kütt, Solman) and summarizing the committee discussions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct confrontation. The speaker instead references and acknowledges critical questions raised by opposition members (such as Helmen Kütt and Kalle Grünthal) concerning the fairness of the subsistence level and the maximum limit on seniors' savings. The speaker agrees with Helmen Kütt’s pointed observation that the untouchable savings limit of 440 euros is "a shamefully small amount" given today's prices.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style is very open and consensus-driven. It is stressed that the decisions of the Social Affairs Committee were consensual, and readiness is expressed to cooperate during the amendment proposal phase to improve the legislation. Recognition is given to the government for the draft bill, as well as to other parties for their participation in the discussions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It supports social redistribution and state intervention aimed at guaranteeing the maintenance of the minimum subsistence level and preventing absolute poverty, allocating resources for this purpose over a four-year period. It deems it important that individuals have an increased right to own protected reserve assets (exceeding 440 euros). Furthermore, it supports the preservation of multiple pension pillars (including the second pillar) to ensure the economic security of the populace.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary focus is on ensuring the subsistence and well-being of vulnerable groups, including those with low income, seniors, individuals with reduced work capacity, and the hearing impaired. Specific emphasis is placed on the necessity of raising the subsistence benefit threshold, updating the methodology used for calculating the minimum living standard, and guaranteeing a stable sign language interpretation service funded by the state budget.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priority is the adoption of the draft Act (732 SE) amending the Social Welfare Act and other related legislation. The objectives are raising the subsistence benefit level, clarifying the procedure for granting the allowance to pensioners living alone, and securing the funding for sign language interpretation services from the state budget. The speaker is a representative of the lead committee for the bill and a strong supporter.
2 Speeches Analyzed