Agenda Profile: Henn Põlluaas

Draft law amending the Hunting Act (567 SE) – First Reading

2025-02-26

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Political Position
The political position is supportive, deeming the draft bill under discussion "very reasonable." The most striking issue, however, is the expansion of the law to address the control of the cormorant population, which is framed as protecting both the environment and the economic interests of coastal fishermen. The position is policy- and solution-based, emphasizing the need for legislative regulation.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of conflicts between hunting and fishing, shifting the focus from large game (wolves, bears) to marine life (cormorants). He relies on the authority of fisheries scientists to justify the need for population management, highlighting a specific problem: cormorants consume more fish than coastal fishermen are able to catch.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is factual, constructive, and inquisitive, starting with praise for the draft bill ("Thank you! I believe this is a very sensible proposal."). The speaker employs a logical appeal, referencing warnings issued by scientists to underscore the urgency of the matter and the necessity of enshrining it in law.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is not enough data.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no opposition; the criticism is aimed rather at the lack of natural balance and the negative impact resulting from the uncontrolled proliferation of cormorants.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is open and suggestive, requesting the responsible party to comment on the matter and consider incorporating a new provision into the current legislative framework. He/She is seeking a solution through the existing draft bill.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is on coastal areas and the economic interests of coastal fishermen. It is emphasized that the activities of cormorants directly threaten the catch volumes and incomes of local fishermen.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective is protective and regulatory, necessitating legislative intervention to safeguard the economic activities and catch volumes of coastal fishermen against damage caused by environmental factors. The objective is to protect existing livelihoods.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is insufficient data.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on backing the draft amendment to the Hunting Act, but the main priority is actually expanding its scope. The speaker specifically wants the limitation of cormorant populations to be enshrined in the law, thereby acting as both a supporter and an expander of the initiative.

1 Speeches Analyzed