Agenda Profile: Madis Kallas
Second reading of the bill (457 SE) amending the Act on the Government of the Republic and amending other acts in connection therewith (restructuring the State Real Estate Enterprise into the State Real Estate and Cadastre Enterprise)
2024-11-12
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance centers on supporting the administrative reform, with the goal of consolidating expertise (for instance, within the geological service) and reducing duplication. It also stresses the necessity of providing specialized support to local municipalities, a role that the Land and Spatial Planning Agency should fulfill. These positions are geared toward policy implementation and enhancing administrative efficiency, while simultaneously criticizing the prolonged dragging out of the process.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the administrative structure and resource allocation, possessing precise knowledge of the jurisdictions of the Land Board (Maa-amet), the Geological Survey, and the various ministries. Particular emphasis is placed on the overlaps in the fields of geological surveys, mapping, and archiving, as well as the inclusion of forestry under the Ministry of Climate. The objectives for consolidating competence and reducing duplication are presented with technical details.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, analytical, and procedure-focused, primarily utilizing questions concerning the commission's debates and the history of the process. The speaker emphasizes factual accuracy, making a specific correction regarding the previous speaker's error concerning the administrative remits of the ministries. The tone is matter-of-fact and centered on logical arguments.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is linked to the legislative process in the Riigikogu, where substantive questions are presented to the presiding officer and the rapporteur concerning the bill's committee discussion and history. The speaker actively participates in the second reading debate, posing clarifying questions and making amendments.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct opposition is not voiced, but criticism is leveled at the protracted delay (eight years) of the reform process, which indicates dissatisfaction with the pace of the government's actions. A public correction is also issued regarding the previous speaker's (Mart Maastik) obvious error concerning the administrative jurisdictions of the ministries, emphasizing the necessity of factual accuracy.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative approach is pragmatic, acknowledging that the ongoing reform has been spearheaded by multiple governments (three prime ministers), which signals recognition of a certain institutional continuity. In the current debate, cooperation is being sought with the commission's rapporteur to clarify the substance of the discussions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A clear regional focus is directed toward supporting local governments (LGs), particularly in smaller regions. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of filling the void created by the inability of local governments to hire architects, planners, or municipal/town artists.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views relate to the efficiency of resource management and the consolidation of national expertise. Emphasis is placed on the importance of forestry as one of the largest resources and its proper placement under the purview of the Ministry of Climate.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on the second reading of the Act amending the Government of the Republic Act (457 SE), which addresses the reorganization of the Land Board (Maa-amet) into the Land and Spatial Planning Board (Maa- ja Ruumiamet). The speaker’s role is to oversee the process and the objectives of the reform (consolidation of competence, support for local governments/municipalities).
3 Speeches Analyzed