Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
Second reading of the bill (457 SE) amending the Act on the Government of the Republic and amending other acts in connection therewith (restructuring the State Real Estate Enterprise into the State Real Estate and Cadastre Enterprise)
2024-11-12
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is one of strong opposition to the government's proposed bill (the omnibus package), primarily because it removes state supervision concerning the preservation of geological data. The speaker stresses the need to protect Estonia's mineral resources—its "crown jewels"—from greedy external powers (Brussels/the EU) and the passivity of the internal government. This position is distinctly value-driven and protectionist, centered on safeguarding national assets.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker exhibits a deep understanding of the Earth's Crust Act, citing specific provisions (§ 107 (3), § 25 (1)) and outlining the repercussions of losing regulatory oversight. They grasp the requirements for entering geological survey reports into the register and are familiar with the fines levied against legal entities (up to 400,000 euros) for non-submission of data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative and forceful, employing powerful emotional imagery ("crown jewel," "greedy hands") and historical parallels (the Soviet Union versus the European Union). Although specific legal statutes are cited, the tone is accusatory, faulting the rapporteur for inaccuracy and the government for concealing the real truth. The speaker levels direct accusations of lying and "shoving garbage down people's throats."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The data reflects active participation during the bill's second reading, where the speaker repeatedly questioned the presenter and delivered an extended address. This pattern demonstrates persistence in clarifying the ramifications of specific legislative changes, as well as procedural resistance.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is aimed at the government, the Ministry of Climate, and the rapporteur, who are accused of concealing the content of the draft bill and misleading the public. Criticism is also directed at the European Union/Brussels, which is viewed as a threat to Estonia's mineral resources. The opposition is intense and procedural, culminating in a proposal to suspend the reading.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is a very strong regional focus on Ida-Virumaa, which is treated as Estonia's crown jewel thanks to its mineral resources (phosphorite, rare earth metals). Emphasis is placed on the need to protect the region's clean groundwater and resources from foreign exploitation.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views are protectionist, emphasizing the need for state control and oversight of mineral resources and geological information. They oppose the activities of foreign companies that generate billions in profit, which could lead to the concealment of national wealth. They support a strict regulatory penalty mechanism (large fines) for the failure to submit data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the opposition to the draft bill on the reorganization of the Land Board (457 SE), as it amends the Earth's Crust Act and abolishes supervision over the preservation of geological information. The speaker is an opponent who demands that the reading of the bill be terminated and that it be sent back to the committee in order to prevent the concealment of mineral resources data.
4 Speeches Analyzed