Agenda Profile: Andres Metsoja
Draft law amending the Construction Code Act, the Administrative Cooperation Act, and the Water Act (531 SE) - second reading
2025-03-19
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is firmly opposed to Draft Bill 531 SE, arguing that it fails to achieve the goal of reducing administrative burden. Instead, it will increase the cost of boreholes and diminish access to quality water in sparsely populated areas. It is stressed that crucial substantive changes (specifically, the prohibition of the drilling method) are being introduced under the cover of this bill without a proportional impact assessment. The speaker, acting on behalf of the Isamaa faction, proposes to halt the second reading of the draft bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound knowledge of the Water Act, drilling technologies (the ODEX method, percussion-rotary drilling), and regulations concerning the protection of groundwater resources. Specific data is utilized (1,500–2,000 boreholes annually, 100 euros per meter), and reference is made to official positions, such as the recommendations of the Groundwater Commission and relevant legal analysis. Furthermore, the speaker is well-informed about the water program for sparsely populated areas and its associated funding issues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical, analytical, and questioning, expressing bewilderment and a lack of understanding regarding the actual content of the draft bill ("This remains deeply incomprehensible to me"). Logical arguments are used, citing commission protocols and the requirements set forth by the Chancellor of Justice, to emphasize the lack of transparency and thoroughness. The speaker sharply criticizes the duplicity of the opposing side and attempts to expose hidden political objectives.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker has actively participated in the committee's work, raising questions on several occasions regarding the number of boreholes, complaints, and the impact of mining operations. The second address demonstrated a rapid response to colleagues' arguments in the chamber, as the speaker returned to the podium to counter the passionate speeches concerning the reduction of administrative burden.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism is aimed at the government and the ministry, accusing them of duplicity and a lack of transparency, particularly concerning the concealment of the prohibition of the drilling method behind a subordinate legal act. There is also opposition to the stance that trusts local municipalities regarding water permits but dictates a land tax increase to them, demonstrating the state's inconsistent approach to trusting local authorities.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker referred to cooperation with interest groups, such as the Jõks Sorainen bureau and entrepreneurs, who have raised concerns regarding the rising cost of drilled wells. He emphasizes the necessity of listening to the stakeholders and businesses that require clarity and a longer implementation deadline. Essentially, this represents the position of the Isamaa faction, proposing that the reading be suspended.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The primary regional focus centers on the challenges faced by sparsely populated areas, particularly concerning the availability of clean drinking water and the necessity of supporting households in drilling new wells. The discussion also covers the role of local governments (LG) and their lack of authority or input regarding the establishment of mines, which subsequently impacts the availability of groundwater in the area.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives emphasize the proportionality of regulations and their economic impact, warning that banning the drilling method will significantly increase the price of bore wells, which directly affects households. The interests of entrepreneurs are supported, demanding clarity and sufficient time for transition, especially concerning the tender rounds of the rural settlement program.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social issue under discussion is the quality of life and public health in sparsely populated areas, emphasizing the critical need to ensure clean, high-quality drinking water, as dug wells are frequently contaminated with coliform bacteria. The draft bill is being criticized because it could potentially worsen water and overall quality of life for many households.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on opposition to Draft Bill 531 SE (amendments to the Building Code, the Administrative Cooperation Act, and the Water Act). The speaker opposes the bill and proposes interrupting the second reading. The key priorities are transparency in regulating drilling methods and ensuring the impact of mining is accounted for in the legislation.
2 Speeches Analyzed