Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
Draft law amending the Courts Act and, in consequence thereof, amending other laws (to improve the administration of courts) – first reading
2025-05-13
15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the judicial administration reform (632 SE), viewing it as a "cunning trick" designed to shift responsibility from the minister to the Administration and Development Council. The criticism focuses on the reform’s proposed negative consequences, particularly the simplification of closing regional courthouses. This is outcome-based criticism, centered on removing the decision-making level from political accountability.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the administrative structure of the courts (the Administration and Development Council) and the deadlines for the law's entry into force, specifically mentioning dates like June 1 and October 1, 2025. They recognize the rapid implementation of the bill's provisions and the potential consequences this holds for both the budget and the network of courthouses. Furthermore, they are aware of the council's current composition, noting the inclusion of two Riigikogu members.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is suspicious, insistent, and directly confrontational, utilizing the phrase "cunning trick" and expressing certainty regarding negative consequences ("I am certain of this now"). To explain the shift in decision-making authority, an analogy involving the closure of small rural schools is employed. The speaker presents their views in the form of questions, demanding explanations from the minister concerning the accelerated procedure and the objective.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the first reading of the draft bill, focusing on procedural matters and the timeline. He/She is aware of the rhythm of the Riigikogu sessions, referencing the upcoming session week and the recess week. This pattern of activity indicates a rapid response to the bill's expedited procedure.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the minister and the government, who are pushing the bill through, accusing them of shirking responsibility and shifting the decision-making level elsewhere. The criticism is politically charged and focuses on procedural rushing and political accountability (or the lack thereof). Compromise is ruled out because the speaker views the essence of the bill as detrimental to the regions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker stresses the necessity for broad-based cooperation within the Council for the Administration and Development of Courts, demanding that all parties represented in parliament be included there. He/She criticizes the narrow circle of the current structure and the lack of willingness for wider inclusion. This commitment to cooperation is demonstrated by the demand to involve the opposition in administrative structures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is extremely strong, as the speaker views the closure of regional courthouses as the primary threat posed by the legislation. The speaker directly links this change in administrative structure to a reduction in the availability of services across the regions. This regional concern is further highlighted by drawing an analogy with the closing of small rural schools.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic concerns are indirectly manifested as worry over the reduction of budgetary resources, which forms the basis for the closure of courthouses. It is emphasized that the lack of funding and personnel in the budget are the primary reasons why the administrative board will proceed with making cutback decisions. These positions point to concerns regarding the impact of fiscal discipline on regional services.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social topics, education and the accessibility of regional services are indirectly addressed, using the closure of small rural schools as an example. This illustrates the government's tactic of avoiding responsibility when closing local institutions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is heavily directed toward opposing the draft bill (632 SE) on enhancing court administration, with the opposition acting as a strong opponent to the measure. The priority is preventing the bill from being enacted under an accelerated procedure and criticizing its provisions, specifically the creation of the Administration and Development Council. The speaker is focusing on the speed at which the law is entering into force and the procedural risks associated with that pace.
2 Speeches Analyzed