Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
Draft law amending the Emergency Situations Act and, as a consequence, amending other laws (426 SE) – third reading
2024-09-25
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker is strongly opposed to the draft bill (426 SE) because it imposes new, unfunded obligations on local authorities and sidelines primary producers when addressing food security. This political stance focuses on highlighting procedural deficiencies and substantive flaws, criticizing the rushed transposition of the directive. The position is clearly policy- and results-driven, demanding adequate resources for local governments (LOAs) and the inclusion of primary agricultural producers.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates thorough knowledge of local government finances and administrative burden, referencing specific payroll sums (50,000 – 100,000 euros) and budget allocations to state agencies. The expertise is particularly deep regarding food security and supply chains, distinguishing processors from primary producers and naming specific sectors (cereals, meat, milk, potatoes, vegetables). Technical terms are used (the CER Directive, vital service providers, risk analyses).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speech is formal, but the tone is critical and direct, focusing on logical arguments regarding legal inconsistencies and confusion (for example, the "hodgepodge" of risk analysis deadlines). Criticism directed at the government is sharp, employing figurative expressions such as, "they just load stones into entrepreneurs' backpacks and then hand them the whip as well." The style is data-driven, referencing the explanatory memorandum and budget figures, but in the final phase, it also becomes emotionally aggressive, accusing socialists of populism.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Data is unavailable because only three speeches were presented on a single session day.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponents are the governing coalition and the socialists, who are accused of populism and overburdening businesses ("slapping massive taxes on them"). The criticism is primarily policy- and procedure-based, focusing on the fact that proposals from Riigikogu members and interest groups were not considered during the drafting of the bill. The opposition is intense, given that the faction refuses to support the bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker refers to previous cooperation and initiative, noting that EKRE has repeatedly (two or three times) proposed introducing provisions for food supply into the Emergency Situation Act. There is a lack of willingness to cooperate regarding the current draft bill, as important proposals were not taken into account, and the bill will be rejected.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong emphasis is placed on the role, responsibilities, and financial burden of local governments (LG) that are directly linked to regional administration. Furthermore, there is an important focus on rural areas and primary agricultural producers, emphasizing their role in ensuring food security and referencing the significance of rural areas during the pandemic.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker opposes unfunded mandates imposed by the state on local municipalities, stressing that the state assigns the duties but doesn't provide the necessary funding. Support is being provided to primary agricultural producers, ensuring they are supplied with essential resources (fuel, generator capacity). The government's actions are viewed as anti-business, slapping new taxes on companies and heavily burdening entrepreneurs.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus of social issues is directed toward national security and the certainty of food supply during emergencies. The COVID-19 era is mentioned as a context where rural areas offered both protection and food reserves, thereby linking security directly to local food production.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the opposition to and amendment of the draft bill (426 SE) changing the Emergency Situation Act. The speaker is an opponent of the bill, demanding the introduction of amendments that would guarantee resources for local municipalities and include primary food producers among the providers of vital services.
3 Speeches Analyzed