Session Profile: Maris Lauri
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary sitting.
2025-09-17
Political Position
The political position focuses on the deliberation of the Law on the Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (RahaPTS). The speaker supports the Finance Committee's consensus decision not to endorse the adoption of the draft bill in its unchanged form, emphasizing the need for further discussion and clarification. The position is strongly procedural and legal, defending the Riigikogu’s right to make choices as a legislator, even if those choices are challenged by the President or the Supreme Court.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the fields of anti-money laundering (AML), data protection law (GDPR, Law Enforcement Directive), and legislative procedures. Specific terminology is employed (RAB, the European Court of Justice, preliminary ruling, core functions, administrative authority), and reference is made to detailed legal disputes, such as the Supreme Court's referral to the European Court of Justice to clarify RAB's legal status.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is predominantly formal and procedural, as the speaker acts as a representative of the commission, avoiding the expression of personal viewpoints. However, the tone becomes defensive and sharp in response to colleagues’ accusations ("you’re talking rubbish"), emphasizing that disagreements are a natural part of the legislative process. The arguments are primarily logical and fact-based, relying on commission decisions and legal interpretations.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is connected to the Riigikogu's plenary sessions and committee work, specifically by appearing as the rapporteur for the Finance Committee on September 17th. Mention is made of the committee meeting on September 8th, which was attended by several representatives from various ministries and the Office of the President of the Republic.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition stems from colleagues who questioned the constitutionality of the draft bill and issues related to data protection. The speaker sharply criticizes the colleague's claims ("you're talking nonsense/rubbish"), but defends the Riigikogu's right, as a legislator, to make choices. The intensity is moderate but resolute, stressing that a dispute with the President or the Supreme Court is a fundamental part of democracy and there is nothing to be ashamed of.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaboration style within the commission is consensus-based, where decisions concerning the return of the draft bill and the appointment of a representative were made unanimously. The speaker emphasizes the commitment to openness, inviting all interested parties and institutions (e.g., the Financial Supervision Authority) who wish to participate in the new discussion.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation and its conformity with international (European Union) legal norms, particularly regarding the preliminary ruling of the European Court of Justice. There is no regional focus.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations are tied to financial regulation and securing the integrity of the financial system through anti-money laundering measures. The focus is on achieving legal clarity and regulatory precision, especially regarding data usage, to ensure the effective functioning of RAB.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The issue of personal data protection is being addressed, particularly the inclusion of health data in the context of financial investigations. The speaker explains that when the draft bill was adopted, the inclusion of health data had been removed. They support the necessity of handling indirectly obtained data (e.g., pharmacy transactions) in accordance with the requirements set by the Data Protection Inspectorate.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on the draft amendments to the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Act and the International Sanctions Act. The speaker serves as the rapporteur, guiding the new proceedings, and stressing the necessity of clarifying the use of data registers and resolving legal dilemmas regarding the jurisdiction of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
7 Speeches Analyzed