Session Profile: Arvo Aller

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary session

2024-10-07

Political Position
Strong criticism regarding the government's priorities and execution of infrastructure projects, especially the neglect of road development in Ida-Virumaa (Tallinn-Narva). It demands high-speed internet access in remote regions and stresses that postponing infrastructure projects is a matter of saving lives and fostering business development. The criticism is primarily aimed at the government's poor performance and choice of priorities.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound expertise in infrastructure planning and financing, particularly concerning highways and digital connectivity. Uses specific terminology such as "last mile project," "PPP project," and "road maintenance plan," referencing concrete road sections (Jõhvi-Toila 10 km 2+2) and their current design status. Is precisely aware of the current situation regarding Rail Baltic and Via Baltica (e.g., the 57 km unbuilt section on Via Baltica).

4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is predominantly combative, critical, and blunt, accusing the minister of "talking nonsense" and labeling the continuation of Rail Baltic a utopia. The arguments are heavily fact-based, focusing on the deficiencies of specific projects and regional threats, but they also incorporate an emotional element (saving human lives).

4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
They actively participated during one session day (2024-10-07), taking part in the Infrastructure Minister's inquiries and presentations, and repeatedly focusing on the infrastructure issues in Ida-Virumaa.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the inaction of the Minister of Infrastructure and the government, particularly concerning the neglect of development in Ida-Virumaa. It criticizes the shifts in political priorities that led to the cancellation of ready PPP projects initiated by the previous government (EKRE), and accuses the current administration of excluding crucial road sections (Jõhvi-Toila) from the road maintenance plan.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no direct reference to cross-party cooperation, but it proposes involving private sector funding in road construction as a solution (PPP/involvement of businesses), citing Latvia's experience as a positive example. It is prepared to support the government, provided it secures greater funding (200 million) for the Via Baltica project.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A very strong regional focus on Ida-Virumaa (Toila municipality, Jõhvi, Narva), emphasizing the necessity of improving the local internet connectivity and road infrastructure there. It is stressed that the Narva corridor is crucial for developing entrepreneurship (the construction of a large factory) and for mitigating dangerous traffic situations.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports economic growth through infrastructure investments, especially to support business in Ida-Virumaa, ensuring better access to the Narva plant. It considers private sector financing (PPP) a crucial tool for accelerating large road projects (Via Baltica) and funding road construction.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The text emphasizes the social aspect, requiring access to high-speed internet for residents of remote areas to ensure they have the opportunity to communicate with the world. Furthermore, it stresses the need for road construction (specifically the Jõhvi-Toila section) aimed at saving human lives.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main focus is on amending the national road maintenance plan to reinstate the construction of the Jõhvi-Toila road section that was previously removed, which was originally scheduled for 2025. Attention will also be paid to issues concerning the financing and implementation of major infrastructure projects (Rail Baltic, Via Baltica).

4 Speeches Analyzed