Session Profile: Anti Poolamets

Fifteenth Riigikogu, third session, plenary session

2024-04-15

Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional, focusing on the procedural and constitutional criticism of the coalition's activities. The main topics are the prioritization of national defense and military mobility, and ensuring the availability of aid directed at victims of domestic violence. Criticism is directed both at values (the twisting of the constitution) and the inefficiency of the government's actions. The speaker sharply criticizes the coalition's lack of effort in implementing the Rules of Procedure Act.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a deep understanding of parliamentary rules of procedure and specific regulations within the social sector, such as the requirements for the professional training of victim support providers (Regulation No. 20). Furthermore, they hold an authoritative position on matters of national defense and compulsory military service, referencing specific historical battles and politicians. Detailed questions are posed regarding the budget and the number of service providers.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly combative, passionate, and accusatory, especially when criticizing the Reform Party's national defense positions. Strong emotional appeals and figurative language are employed, for instance, comparing the Reform Party to Herman Simm and labeling the constitution "a hollowed-out piece of paper." On procedural issues, the tone is sharp and demanding, insisting that opponents show repentance and sprinkle ashes on their heads.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
An active participant in plenary sessions, submitting interpellations and follow-up questions. They demonstrate consistency, as the submitted interpellation is a continuation of a previous one concerning the accessibility of victim support services. They also actively participate in national defense debates, reacting promptly to the minister's responses.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Reform Party and the governing coalition, who are being criticized both for disregarding procedural rules and for pursuing policies that are devastating to national defense. The criticism is extremely intense, accusing the opposing party of being a danger to national defense due to their idea of abolishing conscription. Opponents are also accused of ignoring the truth and losing their temper.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Information regarding cooperation between political parties is absent. He/She refers to members of his/her parliamentary group (Leo Kunnas, Alar Laneman) as witnesses and allies in the previous struggle to maintain conscription, emphasizing the unity of the faction.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong regional focus, aimed specifically at addressing the issues facing the constituency and the home county. Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring residents of Lääne-Virumaa and Võrumaa—especially victims of domestic violence—have access to mental health support outside of the major urban centers (Harju and Tartu counties).

4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are tied to national defense priorities, supporting greater and more comprehensive investment in military mobility measures. It is emphasized that funding should not be limited solely to EU funds but should represent a strategic leap forward. Furthermore, questions are being raised regarding the size of the Social Insurance Board's 2024 budget allocated for psychological counseling.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses on the social problems faced by victims of domestic violence, demanding better accessibility to psychological counseling and psychotherapy services. It criticizes the new educational requirements set by the Social Insurance Board, which reduce the number of service providers and worsen the availability of aid.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on holding the government accountable and exercising oversight, utilizing interpellations concerning social sector regulations and the budget. It demands that the government comply with the Law on Internal Rules and Procedure regarding the organization of additional sessions. It supports the rapid and thorough implementation of the military mobility measure.

4 Speeches Analyzed