Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats
First Reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Subsoil Act (435 SE)
2024-09-11
Fifteenth Riigikogu, fourth session, plenary session
Political Position
The representative of the EK faction is strongly opposed to this draft legislation and recommends its rejection during the first reading. They advocate for the protection of economic and business stability and the importance of long-term investment planning, emphasizing that uncertainty in tax policy and regulations damages employment. The decision is primarily economic and procedural, rather than value-based or purely visionary.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of regulatory processes (coordination table, acknowledged discussions) and their impact on business and investments (long-term plans, 2029 goals). They reference specific industry issues (mining, chemicals) that underscore the sector's evaluative influence on the proposed bill. This expertise focuses on the relationship between regulatory impact and the protection of business activities.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetoric is a combination of critical and highly emotional elements, often delivered with an apologetic tone. It employs the repeated phrase, "it somehow doesn't seem reasonable," along with a direct personal address to the minister, and includes questions regarding the involvement of stakeholders. The text is more specific in its structure than usual, but its intent is forceful and impactful.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The lack of meetings with interest groups and the review of the coordination table are cited as the central pattern of the discussion. Reference is made to the visit of the representatives of the Beer Association to the faction, and more broadly, to drawing attention to the necessity of involving stakeholders. The continuous debate is perceived as a cautionary theme guiding the subsequent procedure.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The core opposition stance is defined by opposition to the draft bill, criticism regarding the inadequate execution of procedures and necessary approvals, and the demand to reject the bill during the first reading. Intense criticism focuses on highlighting both procedural flaws and the risks of an economic crisis. A prominent feature is strong rhetoric aimed at protecting business interests and ensuring investment security.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
A critical, yet dialogue-seeking nuance, or an informal willingness to cooperate, is noticeable: the need for engaging stakeholders and opening up discussions is emphasized. At the same time, there is a readiness to thoroughly consider and make room for compromises, provided the procedure is transparent and friendly to the economy. Finding common names is not strongly emphasized in this specific case, but cooperation is being considered to secure investments.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Emphasis is placed on the regional industry of Ida-Virumaa: Viru Keemia Grupp and Kiviõli Keemiatööstus are highlighted as the primary stakeholders whose interests the draft legislation consequently affects. Regional employment and long-term investments are assessed within a regional context. The draft law is viewed directly through the lens of regional economic representation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economically pro-enterprise and regulatory stability assurance: emphasis is placed on long-term business planning, investment security, and employment. Conversely, the draft bill introduces uncertainty regarding regulatory and tax changes, which is viewed as detrimental to the economic environment. The criticism focuses on the financial impact and long-term costs for companies, especially large enterprises.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on blocking the first reading of the draft bill amending the Subsoil Act and improving the procedure. This means emphasizing the significance of the coordination table and the need for its proposals to be genuinely taken into account (not merely taken note of). Regarding the draft bill, the proposal is to reject it during the first reading.
3 Speeches Analyzed