Agenda Profile: Signe Kivi
Third Reading of the Draft Act (338 SE) on Amendments to the Estonian Cultural Endowment Act and the Gambling Tax Act
2024-03-20
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly supportive of the draft amendment to the Estonian Cultural Endowment Act, which addresses issues concerning social guarantees for creative professionals and the funding of cultural infrastructure. It is emphasized that the increase in gambling tax revenue will also allow for the financing of the strategically important ERR studio complex. The position is policy- and procedure-focused, underscoring the legal validity of the chosen solution. The Reform Party faction supports the adoption of the draft bill.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the financing of the cultural sector, allocations from the Cultural Endowment, and the list of nationally important cultural infrastructure projects. Technical terminology is employed (budget strategy document, social guarantees), and the views of the National Audit Office concerning legal jurisdiction are quoted. This expertise is based on prior participation in extensive and detailed discussions during the consideration of key projects.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, explanatory, and measured, focusing on justifying the content of the bill and the procedural correctness of its adoption. Logical arguments are employed, and reference is made to previous parliamentary debates and the positions of the State Comptroller. The tone is conciliatory, acknowledging prior disputes and disagreements, but defending the chosen solution as legally sound.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The address was delivered during the third reading of the draft law, demonstrating active involvement in the final stage of the legislative process. The speaker references their participation in lengthy and detailed debates concerning significant matters during the previous convocation of the Riigikogu, underscoring a long-standing and consistent commitment to this field.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
No direct adversary is named, but disagreements and disputes concerning the inclusion of the new cultural structure (the ERR studio complex) on the list are addressed. The speaker defends the chosen solution, which prevents the infringement of rights belonging to the submitters of projects that were excluded from the approved list. The criticism is aimed primarily at procedural concerns, which are answered by confirmation from the National Audit Office.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Colleague Priit Sibul is thanked for his inquiry to the National Audit Office, which helped confirm the legal competence of the path chosen by the Culture Committee. This demonstrates a willingness to recognize the contribution made toward establishing procedural clarity and fostering cooperation within the parliament. Although the speaker acknowledges that there are differing opinions, the solution chosen by the committee is ultimately supported.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national level, addressing the financing of nationally significant cultural structures and ensuring social guarantees for creative professionals throughout Estonia. Specific sites are mentioned, such as the Tallinn Film Campus and the Estonian Public Broadcasting studio complex, both of which are of nationwide importance.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The increase in gambling tax rates is supported, as this boosts the Cultural Endowment’s budget and enables the financing of strategic cultural infrastructure projects. Earmarked public funding is preferred in the cultural sector, directly linking tax revenue to specific investments.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Strong support for establishing social guarantees and providing subsistence assistance to creative professionals who make a significant contribution to Estonian culture. This is framed as the resolution of a long-standing issue, which underscores the importance of social security within the cultural sector.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the adoption on the third reading of the draft legislation (Bill 338 SE) amending the Estonian Cultural Endowment Act and the Gambling Tax Act. The aim is to clarify the procedure for funding cultural infrastructure and ensure social guarantees for creative professionals, while we remain a strong proponent of the bill.
1 Speeches Analyzed