Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
Draft law amending the State Budget Act (511 SE) - First Reading
2024-10-16
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position centers on strong opposition to the opacity of the state budget, citing the violation of the coalition agreement and the disregard for the fundamental principles of democratic governance. This stance is forceful and value-based, emphasizing the necessity of responsibly managing billions of euros belonging to the taxpayer. The earlier promise of transparency has vanished, replaced instead by the complete opposite.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the state budget and financial management, citing data from the National Audit Office and the technical details involved in budget preparation. Specifically, emphasis is placed on the necessity of publishing a cost accounting-based budget alongside the activity-based budget, as stipulated in the coalition agreement. Furthermore, the lack of transparency surrounding the allocation of operating grants to foundations is brought to the fore.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, accusatory, and demanding, employing direct questions and accusations aimed at the government (e.g., "Why are you prevaricating, why are you lying?"). The tone is formal yet emotionally charged, emphasizing the role of the Riigikogu (Parliament) as the government's employer and criticizing the minister's impolite and confusing language ("tänitamine" [nagging/carping]).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu session, raising repeated questions and making remarks regarding a single agenda item (the draft budget). This pattern of activity indicates a focus on demanding government accountability.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is aimed at the government and the minister, who are being criticized for both policy (lack of budget transparency) and conduct (confused answers, impolite tone). The intensity of the attack is high, accusing the government of violating the coalition agreement and acting dishonestly. The criticism also extends to the presiding officer of the session, who is supposed to defend the interests of the opposition members.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely national, centering on the amendment of the State Budget Act and the use of taxpayer money at the national level.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives emphasize strict fiscal transparency and responsible management of the state budget. There is sharp criticism regarding the opaque allocation of 2.4 billion euros last year, and demands are being made for clarity on how much taxpayer money is also planned to be "siphoned off" in the new budget.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is the opposition to the Draft Act on Amendments to the State Budget Act (511 SE), acting as a strong opponent of this bill. They demand improved transparency in the budget's explanatory memorandum and the publication of a budget based on the expenditure calculation promised in the coalition agreement.
4 Speeches Analyzed