Agenda Profile: Tõnis Mölder
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Planning Act and Other Related Acts (683 SE)
2025-10-08
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly focused on increasing the efficiency of the planning process and reducing bureaucracy, especially regarding the deadlines for processing detailed development plans. It emphasizes the necessity of shortening processing times to lower costs for businesses, while still balancing this with citizens' right to timely public consultation. The position is clearly policy- and procedure-driven, aiming to resolve systemic issues.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the field of planning law, covering the deadlines for processing detailed spatial plans, the initiation procedure, and the implementation of design specifications. They are highly knowledgeable about practical issues arising from changes in land use designation and conflicts between comprehensive plans and detailed spatial plans. Furthermore, they are up-to-date on technical subjects discussed by the commission, such as factoring in climate change and nationwide thematic plans.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The language used is formal, analytical, and procedural, especially in the role of committee co-rapporteur. The tone is constructive and inquisitive, focusing on logical arguments and the clarification of technical legal points (e.g., the starting date for deadlines). Emotional appeals are avoided; instead, emphasis is placed on the transparency of the legislative process and substantive debate.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in legislative work, serving as the co-rapporteur for the draft bill and having participated in the discussion of this specific bill during two sessions of the Economic Affairs Committee (on September 15 and 22). He/She also highlights the close cooperation with interest groups and parliamentary factions, who have expressed interest in joining the debates.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct confrontation, as the speaker is focused on presenting the content and procedure of the draft law. The criticism is instead aimed at systemic shortcomings and lengthy processing times in local governments, with the speaker citing bizarre examples.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is consensual and open, emphasizing that the committee’s decisions regarding the processing of the draft bill and the conclusion of the first reading were made by consensus. He/She works closely with the minister and officials and anticipates substantive discussion with various factions and interest groups between the readings.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation, but as a regional example, he highlights the city of Tallinn, where the processing of detailed zoning plans has dragged on for nearly twenty years. He also refers to problems that have arisen in various local municipalities.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives stress the importance of regulatory efficiency, viewing lengthy procedural times as a direct cost to businesses. They support legislative changes that accelerate planning processes and provide greater certainty regarding timelines, ensuring that matters do not become unduly delayed.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, he emphasizes the importance of citizen involvement in the planning process, ensuring that people can voice their opinions in a timely manner. He stresses that shortening notification deadlines must not substantially restrict people's ability to participate and have a say.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the amendment of the Planning Act and associated legislation (Draft Bill 683 SE). The goal is to establish a clear timeline for local authorities and resolve the issue of protracted detailed planning procedures. He/She is an active proponent and co-rapporteur of the bill, also stressing the necessity of factoring climate change into the planning schemes.
3 Speeches Analyzed