Agenda Profile: Mart Maastik
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu “Establishment of a Riigikogu investigative committee to examine the circumstances related to the termination of Nordica’s activities” (543 OE)
2025-03-10
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political focus centers on the lack of accountability regarding the massive financial losses incurred by state-owned enterprises (Nordica, Estonian Air, Eesti Energia). The speaker strongly advocates for the establishment of an investigative committee to determine who should be held responsible for the waste of taxpayer money, which totals millions and billions. This stance is firmly directed at improving the transparency and accountability of the government and key decision-makers, contrasting political irresponsibility with the asset liability faced by private entrepreneurs.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the failed projects undertaken by state-owned enterprises, highlighting the establishment and subsequent bankruptcies of Estonian Air and Nordica, as well as Eesti Energia’s projects in Utah and Jordan. The criticism regarding energy projects is particularly meticulous, utilizing specific cost estimates (e.g., 2.6 billion euros for offshore wind farms and 1.3–2 billion euros for the Estonia–Latvia line). He/She emphasizes that scientists and entrepreneurs have also drawn attention to these unreasonable expenditures.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, critical, and emotionally charged, conveying outrage over the lack of accountability ("this is actually sad," "completely unacceptable"). Strong contrasts and analogies are employed (stealing a loaf of bread versus losing billions), along with rhetorical questions, to underscore the political injustice. The speaker brings up repeated instances of previous failures to justify the urgent need for an investigative committee.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the Riigikogu debates, addressing questions to both the presiding officer and the rapporteur, and requesting additional time. They reference previous repeated inquiries directed at the Prime Minister concerning energy issues, demonstrating consistent engagement in criticizing specific policy areas.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is aimed at the government and decision-makers who have made poor investment choices and refused to take responsibility. Specific criticism is also leveled at the former Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister, who continue to make "stupid mistakes" because no one is ever held accountable. The criticism is intense and targets both political decisions (expensive energy projects) and the procedural avoidance of accountability.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker addresses their colleagues (using the phrase "Dear colleagues") and generally appeals to reasonable people, but their style is demanding and confrontational, focusing on demanding accountability. There are no references to bilateral cooperation or a willingness to compromise; the objective is to achieve the formation of an investigative committee.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on major national and international projects linked to state-owned enterprises (Nordica, as well as Eesti Energia's projects in Utah and Jordan). Regionally, Saaremaa is mentioned in connection with the planned construction of an expensive electricity connection towards Latvia, with criticism directed at its necessity and overall cost.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives stress strict fiscal discipline and the prudent use of public funds, criticizing the squandering of billions on ill-conceived projects. The speaker champions the principle of cost-effectiveness, asking why anyone would buy a loaf of bread for 5 euros when they could get one for 1 euro. He demands that decision-makers bear personal financial responsibility for the bankruptcies of state-owned companies.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are addressed indirectly, by contrasting the billions in losses caused by politicians with social cuts affecting single mothers and large families. This contrast highlights the injustice of political accountability and the misalignment of priorities.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priority is supporting the formation of a Riigikogu investigative committee to examine the circumstances related to the termination of Nordica's activities. The speaker also advocates for the idea of establishing a permanent committee that would systematically deal with unreasonable decisions and squandering committed by governments.
4 Speeches Analyzed