Agenda Profile: Evelin Poolamets
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government to abandon the implementation of the Rail Baltic project in Estonia and to withdraw from all international agreements related to the project" (650 OE)
2025-09-24
Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the current implementation of the Rail Baltic project, labeling it a failure, financially irresponsible, and a drain on the state budget. This position is driven by the project's actual scope (a single-track compromise solution) and the lack of financial resources, necessitating a radical reassessment. A proposal is being put forward to halt the project and withdraw from international agreements, favoring the consideration of alternatives.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a deep understanding of the financial, technical, and scheduling details of the Rail Baltic project. Specific figures are provided regarding the unfunded segment (nearly 2 billion euros), construction compromises (single-track line, elimination of viaducts), and maintenance costs (tens of millions per year). They are also knowledgeable about the project's international governance structure and contractual risks.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical, skeptical, and forceful, employing strong metaphors and analogies (e.g., "on feet of clay," "wishful thinking," "we were promised an elephant but got a mouse"). Appeals are made both to logic (financial data and risks) and to emotions (the neglect of resources for teachers and doctors). The tone directed at the government is combative, accusing them of dishonesty and concealing the truth.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is an active initiator of the legislative process (Draft Bill 650 OE) and participates in the work of the committees, citing debates held in the Economic Affairs Committee. They frequently speak when answering questions to underscore their viewpoints and criticize the government's activities.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the government and the Ministry of Climate, who are criticized for financial irresponsibility, dishonesty, and prioritizing bureaucracy. The Reform Party is accused of concealing the truth and deceiving voters, citing previous tax increases and the obstruction of the investigative committee's work. The opposition is intense and uncompromising, as they demand the complete termination of the project.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker stresses the need for integrity and independent mid-term assessment, but is critical of the government’s lack of cooperation. They express disappointment that there is no "human" element or genuine space for discussion regarding EU-related projects, and that Estonia is forfeiting its independent right to make decisions.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The emphasis is placed on Estonia's national financial responsibility and the international dimension, highlighting issues in Latvia and Lithuania, as well as the uncertainty surrounding European Union funding. At the local level, attention is drawn to landowner disputes and the inconveniences caused by unconstructed local stops (e.g., Muuga-Soodevahe).
10 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective stresses strict fiscal discipline, standing in opposition to debt financing and wishful thinking. It criticizes the squandering of European Union funds on projects that lack socio-economic justification, deeming such an approach "corrupt." It demands that resources be redirected toward essential public services (teachers, rescue workers, doctors).
10 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In terms of social issues, emphasis is placed on protecting the interests of local residents and landowners against state authorities, noting that they are in a weaker position during disputes. The moral obligation to secure resources for public service providers (teachers, rescuers, doctors) is also highlighted.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on Bill 650 OE, which aims to abandon the implementation of the Rail Baltic project in Estonia and withdraw from the relevant international treaties. The speaker is both the initiator and a strong proponent of this radical proposal to terminate the project.
10 Speeches Analyzed