Viktors Valainis proposes freezing Saeima deputy salaries

Latvian Economy Minister Viktors Valainis, a candidate for the Union of Greens and Farmers (ZZS) premiership, has proposed freezing the salaries of Saeima deputies. Valainis stated that current parliamentary wages are disproportionately high and should be aligned with the country's overall socio-economic situation.

While supporting a salary freeze, Valainis defended the existing transport and housing compensations provided to ZZS deputies. He argued these are necessary because many party representatives live in regional areas and must travel long distances to Riga. He also noted a perceived decline in regional representation within the parliament.

This discussion follows a public initiative on the 'ManaBalss.lv' portal, which gathered over 10,000 signatures to abolish deputy compensations for transport and housing expenses. The initiative's author, Andis Feldmanis, argues that such benefits place deputies in a more favorable position than other public and municipal sector employees. The collective submission will now be reviewed by the Saeima.