Agenda Profile: Andre Hanimägi
Third reading of the Draft Act supplementing the Police and Border Guard Act (670 SE)
2025-10-08
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly supportive of the regulated deployment of tools used by the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA), particularly the license plate recognition system, viewing it as a crucial instrument for society in solving crimes. The speaker emphasizes that the draft law is necessary to keep pace with technological development and to prevent the police from being left in the dark. This position is strongly policy-driven, focusing on regulation and the assurance of public safety.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrated competence regarding the technical details of the number recognition system, clarifying its specific function (license plate recognition, not facial tracking), the number of cameras involved, and the restrictions on data retention. This expert knowledge was further supported by referencing the positions of specialists from the Police and Border Guard Board, the Office of the Chancellor of Justice, and the Data Protection Inspectorate, thereby confirming the draft legislation's compliance with the law.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is at times surprised and defensive, responding to criticism that depicts the system as an overly broad surveillance operation. Logical and procedural appeals are employed, highlighting the bill's third reading and the work carried out by the Legal Affairs Committee. The arguments put forth by opponents are labeled as "pure fear-mongering" and untrustworthy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity demonstrate active involvement in the work of the Legal Committee, where efforts were focused on amending the draft bill and reaching a compromise with stakeholders. Previous professional experience as the head of the district administration is also noted, which relates to addressing local security concerns and demands for the installation of surveillance cameras.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker sharply criticized the opposition (the Centre Party and Isamaa/Urmas Reinsalu) for both substantive and procedural shortcomings. The Centre Party was criticized for dismissing the advice of PPA (Police and Border Guard Board) experts, while the Isamaa representative was accused of only presenting significant objections during the third reading. The fears raised by the opponents (such as car tax fine notices) were directly labeled as scaremongering.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative approach is geared towards compromise, stressing that the current draft represents a finalized solution approved by both stakeholders and regulatory bodies. While the ministry's initial incompetence in launching the bill is acknowledged, support is given to the revised version presented by four members of the Riigikogu.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is indirect, referencing prior experience as a district head, where local residents demanded cameras because of thefts and vandalism. The primary emphasis, however, remains on national policing and the nationwide implementation of the proposed bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, public safety and crime resolution are paramount, stressing the necessity of a number recognition system for solving cases of kidnapping, rape, and theft. Simultaneously, strong emphasis is placed on protecting civil liberties, ensuring that data usage is strictly regulated and ruling out arbitrary surveillance.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the draft Act amending the Police and Border Guard Act (670 SE), which aims to regulate the number plate recognition system. The speaker is a strong proponent of the bill and highlights the progress made in the Legal Affairs Committee in addressing data protection concerns, ensuring that the law keeps pace with technological advancements.
2 Speeches Analyzed