On Thursday, 24 November, the majority of Latvian Saeima’s Legal Affairs Committee voted against amendments to the State Administration Structure Law and Cabinet Structure Law, opposing the introduction of vice-minister posts and creation of a new ministry in the country.
Five members of the coalition voted in favour of the aforementioned legislative drafts during the meeting of the committee. Six members of the opposition voted against. Nevertheless, Rules of Order of Saeima allow for the option to submit the rejected legislative draft to the Saeima for a review regardless. Members of the coalition do not hold majority in the Legal Affairs Committee, but they do have the majority in the parliament.
This option was mentioned by the chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee Andrejs Judins. It was also referenced by Saeima deputy Māris Kučinskis, who is one of the people behind the legislative draft. Like Kučinskis, the head of the State Chancellery Jānis Citskovskis stressed during the meeting that creation of vice-minister posts would help resolve existing problems in different sectors.
Currently it is unknown when the Saeima may make up its mind on the suggested amendments. It is possible discussions will be held in the second half of 24 November. This will depend on whether or not the Saeima receives a report from the minister of finance on this topic.
Saeima deputy Atis Švinka stressed during the meeting that the Ministry of Climate and Energy should be entrusted with the environment protection sector as well. Deputy Daiga Mieriņa said the State Chancellery did not provide the committee with sufficient information.
Only one number was mentioned – approximately EUR 100 000. This is the estimated cost of the creation of a new minister’s seat.
The politician referenced her experience working in Ādaži, adding that she would not make any decisions without clear information about the costs.
Representative of the State President’s Chancellery voiced support for the suggested amendments. The representative of Saima’s Legal Office Gatis Melnūdris asked if the committee held discussions about expansion of functions of parliamentary secretaries instead of creating vice-minister posts in ministries.