Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
First Reading of the Draft Act Amending the Customs Act (350 SE)
2024-01-17
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is one of moderate opposition, focusing on the substantive contradictions and potential risks inherent in the draft legislation. It is emphasized that the gray area existing between simplification and the enhancement of prevention measures could lead to corruption, necessitating an analysis of this specific risk. This position is geared toward the policy's effectiveness and value-based protection, raising the question of how the new law will protect young people and society better than the previous framework.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the application of customs law, the control of postal consignments, and national supervisory operations. The focus is specifically on the conflicts between the technical objectives of the draft law (streamlining vs. simplification) and their potential impact on corruption risk. Specific terms such as "grey area" and "examination of postal shipments" are used.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is direct, interrogative, and critical, yet maintains formality in its addresses. Logical appeals are employed, drawing attention to contradictions within the bill's objectives and issuing warnings against corruption. The tone sharpens when the presiding officer's assessment of the debate's substance is challenged, in defense of the questions' relevance.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the legislative debate, repeatedly posing questions and intervening even in procedural discussions. This pattern demonstrates an effort to elicit clear answers, criticizing the minister's lack of clarity in responding and emphasizing the necessity of informing the public.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The objection is directed both at the presenter’s vague answering style, which fails to resonate with the public, and at the session chair’s assessment of the debate’s substance. The criticism targets the procedure and the speakers’ performance, deeming the chair’s statement regarding the asking of questions "inappropriate."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of interaction is primarily confrontational, focusing on the accountability of government representatives and the clarity of their responses. The stance of the second deputy (Rene Kokk) regarding the public interest is highlighted, suggesting a degree of factional unity. There is no sign of openness to compromise; instead, clear analysis and definitive answers are being demanded.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives primarily focus on fiscal discipline and efficiency, noting that simplification should be accompanied by corresponding savings. However, it is emphasized that the goal of achieving savings must not create gray areas that pose a risk of corruption, thus prioritizing ethical and oversight integrity.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues, emphasis is placed on protecting society, and especially youth, by preventing prohibited and restricted goods from being sent to Estonia. This directly links the amendments to the Customs Act with the objectives of social security, necessitating an explanation of how the amendment enhances this protection.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the draft act amending the Customs Act (350 SE), where the speaker is acting in the role of a critical scrutinizer. The priority is to ensure that the amendments do not create new gray areas in state supervision that could generate corruption risks. Analysis and explanations regarding the actual impact of the draft are required.
3 Speeches Analyzed