Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik

Second reading of the draft law amending the Social Welfare Act and the Value Added Tax Act (mental health service) (500 SE)

2024-11-14

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session.

Political Position
The political stance is strongly critical of the implementation model for the funding and accessibility of mental health services. It is emphasized that while the concept of self-help is supported, the budget includes reductions in mental health-related line items, which the governing coalition voted in favor of. The position focuses on the practical viability and effectiveness of the policy, raising doubts about whether the situation will improve or deteriorate.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the models for financing mental health services and the availability of specialists. Specific budgetary details (next year's budget cuts) and regional examples (e.g., 6,000 euros for Vormsi Island) are used to illustrate implementation problems. Reference is also made to knowledge of the positions held by local governments (the Association of Cities and Rural Municipalities).

2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is questioning, skeptical, and analytical, focusing on exposing logical contradictions between policy and funding. Many direct questions are employed, requiring detailed explanations (e.g., concerning the specialist’s salary, the remote work format, or the model of attending once a week). The tone is formal, focusing on facts and the uncertainty of third parties (the Union of Local Authorities, KOV liit).

2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the legislative debate, posing questions during the second reading of the draft bill. Reference is made to previous discussions (committee meeting) and contacts with representatives of local authorities. More precise patterns of activity (frequency, rhythm) remain unclear based on the data presented.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is aimed at the governing coalition/majority that voted in favor of the controversial budget, which included cuts to mental health funding lines. The criticism is rooted in both policy and funding issues, highlighting the contradiction between their promises (improving services) and their actual actions (budget cuts).

2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is consulting external stakeholders, referencing the position of the Association of Cities and Municipalities to assess the bill's support and impact. Direct collaboration with the opposing side is not apparent; rather, the views of third parties are being used to substantiate the criticism.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong regional focus, concentrating on the capacity of local authorities (LG) and the problems associated with service accessibility in small regions. Specifically, Vormsi island is cited as an example, and the question is raised: how does 6,000 euros per year ensure the presence of a specialist?

2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic arguments manifest in criticism of budget cuts within the social sector, particularly those affecting mental health funding. Emphasis is placed on the need for realistic and viable financing models that would guarantee the availability of specialists, even in regions operating with limited budgets.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the accessibility, funding, and availability of specialists for mental health services. The speaker supports the general concept of self-help, but demands practical solutions and sufficient resources from the government to ensure these services are provided.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on the Draft Act amending the Social Welfare Act and the Value-Added Tax Act (500 SE), which pertains to mental health services. The speaker is acting as a critical interrogator and opponent of the bill's implementation model, specifically focusing on its practical feasibility.

2 Speeches Analyzed