New Saeima lawmakers train in parliamentary rules and procedures

Newly elected lawmakers from the United List, the largest faction in the next Saeima with 41 members, are preparing for parliament by learning its procedures, LSM reported. The training covered how laws are made, as well as MPs’ rights and responsibilities.

Before their first vote, the lawmakers also need to get to know one another. The group includes experienced local and national government officials, as well as people entering politics for the first time.

Dagnis Straubergs, who has worked in ministries, councils and local government, said he hoped to use that experience in parliament to make people’s lives easier. “Decisions should not be only about articles of laws, but also about how people feel in their everyday lives,” he said.

Other newly elected lawmakers described their priorities. Entrepreneur and lawyer Jānis Stērninieks said he saw an opportunity to change things. Anete Biķe said she had studied in Paris before choosing to return to Latvia and enter politics. Liene Apine said her goal was to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in society.

Māris Ozoliņš, an editor at the iAuto portal, said he planned to serve for four years and reduce the administrative burden, including by limiting the period for appealing administrative fines to 10 days.