Estonian adviser's firing over Gambling Tax Act sparks debate on accountability

Piia Schultz, an adviser at the Riigikogu Chancellery, has been dismissed following an error in the Gambling Tax Act and her comments to a journalist. The decision was made by Antero Habicht, Director General of the Chancellery, despite calls from the Riigikogu President to avoid the move. The case has since raised questions about accountability and the role of civil servants in public communication.

The Gambling Tax Act passed its second reading on November 19, leaving over a week for final adjustments before approval. However, a drafting error in the legislation led to Schultz's removal. The Chancellery, responsible for ensuring bills are legally sound, had assigned the same adviser to review the act—an adviser later involved in Schultz's dismissal.

Külli Taro, a legal expert, argued that civil servants should have the right to speak with the press. She also suggested that Schultz's dismissal should be reviewed in court to determine its fairness. Taro added that officials may bear a duty to clarify state functions to the public. Lawmakers ultimately bear responsibility for legislation, particularly those on relevant committees who review drafts in detail. Yet, members of the Riigikogu are not expected to possess expert drafting skills. The Estonian Ministry of Finance has not publicly addressed the causes of the legislative inaccuracies. Lauri Hussar, President of the Riigikogu, had earlier advised against dismissing Schultz over the mistake. Despite this, Habicht proceeded with the decision, citing both the error and her media remarks as grounds for termination.

Schultz's dismissal highlights tensions between administrative accountability and the rights of civil servants. The case also underscores the reliance on Chancellery advisers for accurate legislation, even as lawmakers retain final voting responsibility. No official explanation from the Ministry of Finance regarding the error has been made public.