Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
First Reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Penal Code and the Amendment of Other Related Acts (Increasing the Fine Unit) (Bill 415 SE)
2024-04-30
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Third Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the government's draft bill (415 SE) concerning the increase of the fine unit. The opposition targets both the substance (the legitimacy of raising fines) and procedural correctness, emphasizing the violation of good legislative practice. The political framework is primarily procedural and outcome-based, demanding accountability and adherence to the law from the government.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates competence regarding the legislative procedure (intent to develop/drafting intention) and the accounting of administrative costs, challenging the minister's explanations concerning procedural expenses. Their arguments rely on specific legal assessments, referencing the Estonian Bar Association and the Viru County Court. They also demonstrate knowledge of the requirements of the Rules of Good Legislative Practice.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is confrontational and demanding, accusing the minister of immediate legal violation and requiring full accountability, including for previous errors. A formal yet sharp tone is employed, focusing on logical and procedural arguments. Legal correctness is emphasized over emotional appeals.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Active participation is evident in the Riigikogu session during the first reading of the draft bill, by posing repeated and persistent questions to the minister. This pattern of activity indicates a focus on monitoring the legislative process and immediately challenging the actions of the government.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opposition is aimed at the Government of the Republic and the minister, sharply criticizing the manner in which the bill was processed and the violation of legislative drafting rules. The opposition is intense, focusing on both procedural and substantive deficiencies, and demanding the suspension of the bill. Criticism is also leveled at the minister's incompetence in assuming responsibility.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Information is scarce. The speaker does refer to external criticism (The Bar Association, Viru County Court), but there is no information regarding cooperation with other members of the Riigikogu.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation (amendment to the Penal Code), but the critical assessment of the Viru County Court is referenced. There are no references to specific local or regional problems.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspectives are evident in the challenge against the government’s calculation of procedural costs, emphasizing that police officers receive salaries regardless of the number of proceedings handled. This points to criticism regarding the economic justification for raising fines and skepticism towards the arguments used to cover government expenditures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The discussion centers on issues related to the legal system, specifically penal policy (the increase of the fine unit). It is stressed that raising fines to this extent is not lawful, citing the necessity of ensuring the proportionality and legality of punishments.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on opposing the draft bill (415 SE) to amend the Penal Code. The primary priority is demanding strict adherence to legislative procedures and ensuring the existence of a proper drafting intent, thereby acting both as an opponent of the bill and as a watchdog for procedural correctness.
2 Speeches Analyzed