Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
Draft law (447 SE) for amending the Education Act of the Republic of Estonia and amending other related laws (establishing the obligation to attend school) – third reading
2024-12-04
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
There is strong opposition to the draft amendment of the Education Act (447 SE), which is viewed as introducing drastic changes and being opaque in its substance. The criticism is primarily aimed at the government's procedural deficiencies, such as the absence of an impact assessment and the failure to consult with local municipalities. The political framing is clearly oppositional and results-driven, highlighting the negative social and regional repercussions of the legislation. The Conservative People's Party of Estonia does not support the bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound knowledge of the specifics of education system financing, particularly concerning the unequal treatment of general upper secondary schools (gymnasiums) and vocational education institutions. Specific terminology is employed, such as "per-student funding," "school meals," and reference is made to supplementary financing provided via Riigi Kinnisvara AS (State Real Estate Ltd). A concrete claim is put forward regarding a 50 million euro funding shortfall in vocational education, and the extension of studies from three to four years is criticized.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is critical, concerned, and logical-analytical, focusing on the bill's shortcomings and inherent dangers. Direct accusations are leveled against the government (e.g., "living in a silo," "disregarding procedural rules that have become standard practice"). The appeals are primarily logical and fact-based, referencing specific figures (e.g., analysis beginning in 2035, 44 local municipalities, schools with fewer than 100 high school students).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the government and the Ministry of Education and Research (HTM), who stand accused of ignoring procedural rules and perpetuating unequal funding. The criticism focuses on both policy and procedure, highlighting the absence of impact assessments and the way local governments have been put in an impossible position. The opposition is intense, and compromise is out of the question, as the political party does not support the bill in its entirety.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker concurs with colleague Tõnis Lukas's criticism concerning the lack of transparency in the bill's content, suggesting a readiness to back arguments presented by other opposition parties. There is no mention of broader, cross-party cooperation or any willingness to compromise with the government.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong emphasis is placed on the regional policy consequences, warning that the closure of educational institutions risks the depopulation of rural areas. Specific examples cited include the threat of shutting down the Hiiumaa Vocational School and the Vana-Vigala school. Furthermore, it is noted that 44 local governments have been forced into a difficult position regarding the closure of their gymnasium sections.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The focus is on the inequality of state funding within the education system, demanding the unification and equalization of funding for upper secondary schools and vocational education institutions. Concern is expressed regarding the underfunding of vocational education and the addition of new obligations for local governments (e.g., the requirement for the school operator to appoint a responsible person).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around education and the extension of compulsory schooling to the age of 18, a change accompanied by social deficiencies and widespread discontent. Concerns have been raised that forcing students who are unwilling to learn into the classroom could disrupt the learning environment for those who are motivated. The principle of lifelong learning is also addressed; while supporting opportunities for further education, there is a mention of the necessity to restrict "parasitic" learning practices.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus is on opposing the draft amendment to the Education Act (Bill 447 SE) during its third reading. The speaker is a staunch opponent of the bill, highlighting its flawed procedural aspects (specifically, the lack of an impact assessment) and its negative consequences for both the education system and local municipalities.
2 Speeches Analyzed