Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Emergency Situation Act (124 SE)
2024-01-25
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political position strongly focuses on ensuring food supply security, framing it as an issue of national security and public confidence, especially in light of the war in Ukraine. The speaker strongly supports amending the Emergency Situation Act to include food supply among essential services. The government's actions are criticized for rejecting the opposition's sound bill, which, it is argued, delays the mitigation of security risks.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the Emergency Situation Act, the management of national reserves, and agricultural policy, referencing their prior experience as Minister of Rural Affairs and the audit of reserves. A detailed overview of institutional changes is provided, including the dissolution of the Ministry of Rural Affairs and the role of the Agency of Reserves. Specific terminology, such as "vital service," is employed, and the economic burdens (tax increases) facing the agricultural sector are analyzed.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly factual and focused on legislative matters, but it becomes critical and urgent when discussing the rejection of the draft bill. Both logical arguments (such as the lack of supply security) and emotional appeals are utilized, especially when addressing farmers directly, urging them to demonstrate their resolve and stand up for food security. The tone is concerned and emphasizes the necessity of swift action.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Their track record demonstrates active legislative initiative, having already submitted the draft bill with colleague Martin Helme back in May 2023. The speaker also pointed to their previous work as a minister, including the actual auditing of food reserves.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the government and the commission, who are being criticized for rejecting the opposition's draft bill without delving into its substance, citing new legislative amendments planned for the future as their justification. The criticism is both procedural and political, stressing that the government is prioritizing political opposition over national security. Furthermore, the government's tax policy, which increases the burden on farmers, is also under fire.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker initiated the draft bill in cooperation with colleague Martin Helme. Hope was expressed that the bill would find majority support in parliament, citing the desire to achieve broader political consensus on security issues.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is heavily directed toward rural areas and agriculture, underscoring the vital role farmers play in guaranteeing food security. Criticism is leveled against the depopulation of regions located outside of Tallinn's "golden circle," and the absence of a dedicated Minister of Rural Affairs within the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views are focused on protecting the interests of the agricultural sector, opposing the government's tax increases (including excise duties, VAT, and the heavy vehicle tax), which increase the burden on farmers. Warnings have been issued that these tax hikes will make the price of Estonian food significantly more expensive. They also support the creation of a national food reserve, which necessitates state expenditures.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, emphasis is placed on guaranteeing the population's sense of security through the availability of food supplies in an emergency. The necessity of a national food reserve is also mentioned for assisting low-income families.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on amendments to the Emergency Situation Act (Bill 124 SE), specifically to designate the supply of foodstuffs as a vital service. The objective is to transfer the administration of this service to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, given its role in managing the Centre of Strategic Reserves. The speaker is both the initiator and a fervent proponent of this bill, stressing its immediate necessity.
10 Speeches Analyzed