Coalition talks update: no progress on economic topics, salaries next
The four parties locked in coalition talks failed to make headway on economic questions and will return to the topic next week. The next subject is wages.
Economic growth and boosting the business sector was always going to be a tough nut to crack after defense, which found compromise quickly.
Free Party Chairman Andres Herkel said everyone would like to see tax cuts but the problem lies in budget cover and Wednesday saw rather heated debates. “On a personal note, I am happy that we finally reached fundamental questions and were able to map the vast array of different opinions.”
Sven Mikser, head of the Social Democrats, said it's too early to decide on or allocate funds to specific means, as new and more important priorities might emerge as the talks progress. "I presume that int he final phase of the talks we will weight the alternatives and match wishes with actual possibilities to make the ends meet," he added.
Reform Party minister Hanno Pevkur told Postimees talks are proceeding at a steady pace.
First-time MP Küllike Kübarsepp from the Free Party said the talks have so far focused on details, not the bigger picture, and her party will not join a government, which does not intend to bring about changes in the society.
IRL's Jaak Aaviksoo said a four-party-coalition is in everyone's interest, as three parties would be too unstable, and currently no one is willing to think about such a scenario.
Editor: J.M. Laats