Coalition talks grind to halt as Free Party takes time out
The Free Party proposed taking a break from coalition negotiations saying the current format has failed to answer primary questions.
Artur Talvik, the party's top candidate at the election, said he is dissatisfied with the Reform Party especially, but also the Social Democrats and IRL. Talvik said his party is unhappy with the slow pace of the talks and that their proposals have been ignored.
PM Taavi Rõivas, who is heading the talks, said the Free Party is welcome back at the table. Free Party Chairman Andres Herkel said he has no plans to return quickly.
The Social Democrats also said they will not attend the talks on Thursday. Rõivas himself will also not attend as he has flown to Brussels for a work trip. Social Democrat board member Indrek Saar said there are six key topics at the talks, and only one, defense, has so far been finalized.
Sven Mikser, Social Democrat chairman, said the talks have ground to a halt and will continue more directly, with party representatives talking to each other, not as one group.
IRL's Jaak Aaviksoo said it is time for tough decisions. He said the talks have so far mapped out positions and now is the time to decide the format of the government.
Editor: J.M. Laats