Session Profile: Reili Rand

The political position is characterized by strong advocacy for regional policy and social justice, sharply criticizing government decisions that hinder regional development and create social instability. The sharpest criticism is leveled at the suspension of funding for the Haapsalu railway and the social impact of the casual wage bill. The approach is results-based, emphasizing that the government has withdrawn support from projects that were already prepared and financed. They demand equal treatment for island residents, treating the ferry connection as an extension of the national highway network.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in regional development and infrastructure projects, particularly concerning the Haapsalu railway (specifically the Turba–Risti section, construction permits, and property acquisition) and the ferry connections to the major islands (the replacement of the Regula ferry, and permanent resident discounts). Specific statistical data is utilized (such as passenger numbers and the 90 properties involved), along with references to earlier policy concepts, including the public transport reform and regional industrial policy packages. Furthermore, the speaker is knowledgeable about how social benefits (unemployment insurance, parental allowance) are dependent on prior income.

The rhetorical style is critical, urgent, and at times emotional, particularly when addressing regional issues, where the outrage and expectations of local residents are highlighted. It employs both logical arguments (project readiness, positive economic impact) and social appeals (the family budget, the viability of the islands). The recurring emphasis on the withdrawal of funding by Reform Party-led governments lends the discourse a distinctive, tragicomic refrain.

All speeches occurred during a single plenary session (2025-05-05), focusing on questions and interpellations addressed to the ministers. The pattern of activity demonstrates active participation in the debates, submitting both initial questions and repeated follow-up questions in order to obtain specific answers regarding regional policy and social issues.

Strong opposition is directed at the Reform Party-led government, which is repeatedly criticized for withdrawing funding for the Haapsalu railway, despite the project's preparation and the budget being in place. The criticism is policy-driven, accusing the government of ignoring the principles of regional policy and lacking the political will to continue projects that have already been started. They are also criticized for reversing the ferry discount for permanent residents and for the social impact of the casual wage bill.

The speaker positively references the work of the previous regional ministers (Madis Kallas, Piret Hartman) and the concepts they initiated (public transport reform, regional industrial policy), thereby supporting political continuity. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of cross-sectoral cooperation (for instance, with the Ministry of Finance regarding the ferry issue), and the government is urged to address these matters at a strategic level.

The focus is almost entirely regional, concentrating on the development of West Estonia, Läänemaa, Hiiumaa, and Saaremaa. Particular emphasis is placed on the vital role of the Haapsalu–Rohuküla railway and the ferry connection to the major islands in ensuring the viability of these regions. Furthermore, the future of the Hiiumaa Vocational School and Suuremõisa Manor is addressed in connection with the vocational education reform.

Economic views support national infrastructure investments (railways, ferries) as measures positively impacting regional development and the economy, stressing that subsidizing these links is an investment, not a cost. They oppose the casual wage system because it undermines the financial stability and budgeting capacity of workers and their families. Regional industrial policy measures, such as incentives for electricity grid connection and labor tax benefits, are supported to create jobs in rural areas.

The social focus is directed towards protecting financial stability and social benefits, particularly concerning the impact of casual wages on family budgets and the calculation of benefits. Equal treatment for island residents compared to mainland residents is demanded, in order to avoid additional costs and logistical barriers when accessing vital services. The question of restricting private property is also being raised, pending the buyout of railway land.

The legislative focus is directed towards criticizing the social impact of the casual wage bill and demanding the restoration of funding for regional infrastructure projects (the Haapsalu railway). Clarity is also being sought regarding the timeline for the ferry procurement tender and the continuation of regional industrial policy, in order to ensure long-term stability for the regions.