Session Profile: Lauri Laats
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-01-13
Political Position
Representing the Centre Party faction, an oppositional trend is visible regarding the government's policy, focusing on criticism of energy policy and issues stemming from the economy. They favor the use of oil shale and the development of dispatchable capacity to guarantee energy security. Furthermore, they express strong criticism toward the support provided to green energy and stress the necessity of balancing competing interests. Simultaneously, they underscore the need for a constructive response and a debate utilizing open, non-demagogic arguments.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The representative highlights the close connection between energy and the economy, covering topics such as oil shale utilization, energy security, CO2 capture and gas power plants, ENMAK forecasts, and the 2028–2040 period. Specific figures are referenced (e.g., 11.5 million in additional revenue from notary fees, a 30% increase) alongside technical concepts (dispatchable capacity, CO2 capture). The discussion of energy policy topics is both example-driven and based on in-depth research.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
A controlled, critical, and emotionally balanced address. It utilizes specific examples (the high cost of notary fees, the snowball effect) and takes the form of questioning inquiries designed to highlight the answers. It presents powerful observations and employs slightly amusing metaphors, but ultimately sticks firmly to the facts and the core argument.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Legislative and interpellation activity is vigorous: they submit multiple interpellations during a single plenary session, and previous questions and comments are synthesized during the debate. Reference is made to the interpellation from November, and discussions continue on the topics of notary fees, energy, and the judicial system. The sessions feature repeated attendance and cover a wide spectrum of issues.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The core debate involves criticism of government decisions: the increase in notary fees, the impact of green energy policy, and energy market decisions that are destabilizing the economy. The government's responsibility is emphasized, and the criticism is strong, non-personal, and focused on finding constructive solutions.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
A constructive and critically vigilant approach to cooperation: The necessity of working with the government through obtaining answers and engaging in discussions is stressed. [The group] awaits answers from the Prime Minister and is ready for dialogue, although it will continue critical oversight based on the interests of the faction.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The concerns of the Ida-Virumaa and Jõhvi region are clearly emerging: the closure of the courthouse, the social impact on the area, and the transparency of investments. Harju and Tartu counties are also receiving attention, but the focus remains on the development and social welfare of Ida-Virumaa.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economically, the main criticism revolves around tax hikes and service prices, which diminish consumer purchasing power. Criticism is also directed at energy prices and the costs associated with support measures, and there is an emphasis on the need to balance the costs of green policy with the interests of the state budget and the wider economy. [The policy/statement] supports the continued use of oil shale for the sake of economic stability and energy security.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Emphasis is placed on the importance of regional development and social stability in Ida-Virumaa: the closure of the courthouse is cited as a sign of the redistribution of state expenditures and a lack of transparency in the national budget. The protection of jobs and regional well-being is at the forefront.
11 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on regulating the increase in notary fees, which has led to discussions regarding its impact and inquiries directed at the government to investigate these topics. Furthermore, the need to advance energy-related legislation (dispatchable capacity, the future use of oil shale) and draft bills intended to improve judicial and energy organization has been highlighted.
11 Speeches Analyzed