Presidential remarks at Parliamentary opening raise eyebrows

President of Iceland Halla Tómasdóttir did not mince words at the opening of parliament yesterday, urging MPs to choose their words carefully in the chamber and to improve the conduct of parliamentary business.

“It may be time to consider changes to the parliamentary rules of procedure, perhaps even to the constitution. It should not, and must not, be the goal of the honorable Alþingi to keep breaking records in filibustering,” the president said.

It is safe to say that her remarks were met with mixed reactions. Some opposition members felt that by raising the issue of filibustering without addressing the role of the opposition, the president was siding with the governing majority.

A government MP interviewed by the newspaper agreed that the president should not have used the word filibuster at all.

Others criticized the president for involving herself in how parliament organizes its work, arguing that discussions about legal changes—let alone constitutional changes—fall outside her role.

The speech by Þórunn Sveinbjarnardóttir, Speaker of Parliament, also drew attention. She reflected on the chaotic end of the summer session and her own role in it, saying she accepted full responsibility.

“I am aware that, as Speaker, I must work to rebuild the trust of many in this chamber, and I intend to do so with integrity,” she said.

Parliament convened for the 157th time yesterday following a traditional service at Reykjavík Cathedral. After the formal opening, a lengthy break was taken while MPs and guests refreshed themselves at Smiðja. During the break, seating arrangements were finalized and the budget bill was distributed.

The session will resume this evening with a policy address by Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir, which will be followed by a live debate.