Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
Draft law amending the Prison Law (506 SE) – first reading
2024-10-16
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The speaker is highly critical of the proposed amendments to the Imprisonment Act, specifically those relating to the abandonment of detention cells and the centralization of services. The criticism is primarily outcome-based, focusing on the draft bill's actual functionality and economic viability. The speaker fears that this optimization will result in a deterioration of services and financial waste due to the high costs associated with converting existing buildings. Furthermore, the speaker accuses the government of rushing the process and demonstrating incompetence.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of construction projects for detention facilities and joint police buildings (e.g., Pärnu), as well as the specifics of detention cells. Furthermore, they are knowledgeable about logistical problems related to transporting detainees from peripheral areas (Saaremaa, Hiiumaa) and the necessity of medical examinations, referencing historical practices in this context.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker employs a confrontational and skeptical style, utilizing rhetorical questions to highlight the bill's flaws and logistical issues. They use strong language, accusing the opponent of a malicious political attack and criticizing the government's haste ("rushing in headfirst"). To bolster these logical arguments, examples are provided concerning the necessity of medical examinations and the detention cells constructed over the last decade.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker is strongly opposed to the bill's proponents, criticizing both political malice (attacking the respondent) and procedural haste. The criticism targets the government's alleged incompetence and the unfeasibility of the financial promises regarding savings. He rejects the opposing side's claims that he had previously alleged violations of the human rights of detainees.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker focuses on the regional impact, highlighting the consequences of centralization for the islands (Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, Vormsi) and other regions, such as Pärnu. They emphasize that services and infrastructure must be accessible outside of Tallinn and Tartu as well.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective centers on budget discipline and fiscal prudence, while expressing strong skepticism regarding the bill's purported cost savings. The speaker fears that state budget funds will be squandered on the reconstruction of new, recently completed detention facilities, an endeavor that will require tens of millions of euros. He criticizes the plan, arguing that while it ostensibly optimizes operations, it will actually increase expenditures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues raised are the professionalism of services provided to detainees and the quality of medical examinations. The speaker emphasizes the need to ensure adequate health screening for those under arrest, referencing the historical practice of testing for sexually transmitted diseases. He expresses concern that the centralization of the service could lead to a decline in its quality.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is centered on opposing the draft Act Amending the Imprisonment Act (506 SE) and scrutinizing its details. The speaker is a strong opponent of the bill, concentrating specifically on the logistical, medical, and economic consequences resulting from the abolition of disciplinary cells.
2 Speeches Analyzed