Session Profile: Aivar Kokk
15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session
2025-05-14
Political Position
The speaker vigorously advocates for the positions of the Isamaa Party, consistently adopting an opposition stance regarding the government's energy policy and the transparency of the state budget. Concerning energy, he supports dispatchable electricity generation based on oil shale and sharply criticizes the imposition of renewable energy surcharges on end consumers. He stresses the primacy of Estonian national interests over the European single market and demands a more detailed public disclosure of the state budget, in line with the constitution.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates deep knowledge in the energy sector, utilizing specific figures (oil shale cost price of 49.3 euros/MWh vs 150 euros/MWh), technical terminology, and referencing specific projects such as the third high-voltage line to Latvia and the LNG terminal. Shows a strong grasp of the state budget structure and legal acts, citing the positions of the Chancellor of Justice and the National Audit Office, as well as constitutional requirements.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Uses emotional and confrontational rhetoric, combining it with fact-based arguments. The approach is straightforward and critical, employing figurative language ("take the electricity away from your home for a week") and irony ("the great victory of the Reform Party"). It relies on both technical argumentation and emotional influence, emphasizing the interests of the public and businesses.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Actively participates in the plenary sessions of the Riigikogu, delivering both lengthy, comprehensive reports and brief, clarifying questions. Demonstrates consistent attendance across various topics, ranging from energy to environmental issues, showcasing regular involvement in parliamentary activities.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
He/She sharply criticizes the management of Elering and the government's energy policy, accusing them of disregarding Estonian interests and draining the pockets of end-consumers. The opposition is principled and uncompromising, especially on energy issues, where it labels the government's draft legislation as "hostile toward the people and businesses." It emphasizes that Isamaa cannot support such bills.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Shows limited willingness to cooperate, although acknowledging some positive aspects in the opposing side's proposals ("it is reasonable in some respects"). Expresses hope that the Finance Committee, together with the Ministry of Finance, will be able to improve the draft legislation, but the overall approach is more confrontational than collaborative.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses primarily on nationwide issues, particularly in the fields of energy and the state budget. It specifically mentions Narva (CO2 capture) and Saaremaa (livestock farming), but the overall focus is on national policy issues, not regional specifics.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports the protection of end-consumer interests in the energy sector, criticizing the imposition of additional taxes and fees. It expresses concern over the economic decline (nine quarters of contraction) and demands a clearer overview of the distribution of expenditures within the state budget. Furthermore, it supports oil shale energy as a cheaper alternative to gas and renewable energy.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available
11 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on amending the State Budget Act to bring it into compliance with the Constitution, requiring a more detailed breakdown of expenditures by program. It criticizes energy legislation, particularly the treatment of small consumers (private residences, apartment associations/HOAs). Furthermore, it stresses the necessity of reducing bureaucracy and protecting property owners' rights within environmental regulation.
11 Speeches Analyzed