Eesti Ekspress wrote that the Kristiine district elder Renata Lukk (Eesti 200) worked remotely but was actually in Laos. Lukk said she worked on weekdays and traveled on weekends.
Lukk wrote on social media that she left Estonia on June 30. She knew that there were disputes in the Tallinn coalition and she might lose her position as district elder. Lukk took five sick days and then worked remotely. The walls of the Kristiine district government building were being repaired as they had cracked.
Lukk said: "Since the repairs make a lot of noise, everyone can work remotely if possible. I am also using this opportunity. The repairs will end by the middle of next week."
Lukk added that she has been available since July 7. She has participated in meetings, approved invoices, and signed documents. "The work has progressed well," she said.
Tallinn Mayor Jevgeni Ossinovski (SDE) said he was not aware of Lukk's remote work. He does not consider it reasonable. "District elders should take leave in such cases," said Ossinovski.
Ossinovski added: "Leaders should work remotely for a short time, not from another country." He will talk to Lukk about this topic.
Ossinovski said that Lukk has worked well. However, in public service, things must appear proper. "If a person is on vacation and posts pictures, they should take leave," he said.
Deputy Mayor Aleksei Jašin (Eesti 200) said that Lukk has fulfilled her duties. He sees no problem. "Remote work is common today. Lukk is hardworking," said Jašin.
Jašin added that the Reform Party created problems in Tallinn. It forced people to cut short their vacations.