Session Profile: Evelin Poolamets
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-10-14
Political Position
The political position is vehemently opposed to the government's proposed social tax amendments, which would terminate health insurance coverage for parents of children under the age of three, labeling the move unprecedented and cruel. This stance is value-based, centered on supporting families and preventing potential health risks. Furthermore, concern is expressed regarding the abolition of the legal education requirement for the State Secretary and the resulting questions of competence.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the fields of social policy and health insurance, focusing specifically on the impact that ceasing social tax payments would have on the labor market and public health. Particular emphasis is placed on the necessity of conducting impact assessments regarding the potential worsening of chronic illnesses and the increase in health impairments. Additionally, administrative matters concerning the Government Office (Riigikantselei) are discussed, particularly the qualifications of the State Secretary and the role of legal experts.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, critical, and at times emotional, employing strong judgments such as "unprecedented and cruel." The focus is on logical appeals, specifically highlighting the lack of consequence and impact analyses, while demanding concrete answers from the minister. The questions themselves are direct and demanding, pointing out issues that have been left unanswered.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity points to active participation in the plenary session, with the individual posing several questions regarding various legislative amendments within a short timeframe. The speaker's focus is on questioning ministers and rapporteurs concerning changes to social policy and administrative organization.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is aimed at the minister and the government's policy, criticizing both the substance of the social policy and its procedural shortcomings. The criticism is intense and focuses on the negative consequences of specific legislative amendments for mothers' health and employment. The opponents are accused of cruelty and failing to conduct impact assessments.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is exclusively on national legal amendments and administrative issues (social tax, the qualification of the Secretary of State). There is no regional focus.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives emphasize the importance of maintaining social benefits to prevent mothers from being excluded from the labor market and to mitigate greater subsequent healthcare costs. Extending the payment of these benefits until the child reaches the age of five or six was considered, which signals support for the national social safety net. Furthermore, concerns are raised regarding the potential additional expenditures for the Government Office when hiring legal experts.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
A strong focus on family policy and maternal health, opposing the termination of health insurance coverage for parents with two small children. It is stressed that this change will exacerbate chronic illnesses and diminish women's opportunities to return to the labor market or have more children. We advocate for the social protection of vulnerable groups (mothers of young children).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on scrutinizing and responding to bills presented by the government. The main priorities include evaluating the consequences of changes to social security tax and health insurance, and questioning the justification and cost-effectiveness of abolishing the qualification requirements for the Secretary of State.
4 Speeches Analyzed