By Months: Signe Riisalo

The political stance is firmly in favor of the proposed amendments to the Social Welfare Act. It emphasizes the necessity of continuously raising the minimum subsistence level and tying it directly to the absolute poverty line, a measure guaranteed by the national budget strategy. This is a policy-driven approach, centered on the welfare and economic security of the populace. Furthermore, the speaker strongly advocates for increasing the untouchable savings limit for the elderly (currently 440 euros), labeling the existing ceiling an "embarrassingly small amount."

The political position is value-based, affirming the inherent worth of every child and the necessity of supporting families. However, there is strong opposition to the current draft bill, as it is deemed excessively costly and fails to address the problem comprehensively. Emphasis is placed on the need for prudent choices and evidence-based measures in social policy, ensuring resources are targeted specifically toward the most vulnerable groups. The speaker favors solutions that are more fiscally responsible for the state and deliver longer-lasting results.

The political position is strongly procedural and focused on social policy. Supports the Reform Party faction's proposal to reject the bill amending the outdated Public Health Act, emphasizing that the law is unenforceable because it will soon be repealed. Demonstrates pragmatism in lawmaking, acknowledging the unusual practice (linking amendments concerning the work ability allowance to the end-of-life declaration bill) as necessary before the summer recess. Defends the government's position regarding car tax relief for people with disabilities, emphasizing long-term negotiations with stakeholders.

The political position is one of strong support for the reform of the social security system (Bill 519), which aims to replace the current unemployment allowance with a basic rate of unemployment insurance. The speaker frames this change as the creation of a more targeted and equitable system that will improve the financial situation of vulnerable groups, particularly those with reduced work capacity. The emphasis is placed on the policy’s effectiveness and on motivating people to actively re-enter the labor market. He/She also confirms the necessity of updating the methodology for calculating the subsistence minimum, which they hope to address by next spring.

The speaker primarily positions themselves as a representative of the Social Affairs Committee, focusing on the handling of two key pieces of draft legislation: the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women and the end-of-life declaration. Their views are strongly procedural and policy-driven, emphasizing consensus and the importance of acceding to international human rights conventions. They strongly support the expansion of international human rights mechanisms within Estonia.