Agenda Profile: Vadim Belobrovtsev
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Restore Support for Youth School Sports" (405 OE)
2024-05-29
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position focuses on opposing the Ministry of Culture's decision regarding the reorganization of school sports funding, demanding the restoration of the previous system. This stance is strongly policy- and results-driven, emphasizing that the former system worked well and the new one is causing confusion. The draft proposal is also broadly linked to the Center Party's alternative to the sugar tax, connecting support for sports with public health.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the funding schemes and organizations of school sports (EKSL, Jõud, county sports associations). Specific quotes and references are used regarding an ERR news item and the explanations provided by ministry representatives (Deputy Secretary General Tarvi Pürn). The presentation emphasizes practical experience, referencing the speaker's previous work as Deputy Mayor of Tallinn and the support agreement of the City of Tallinn.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and skeptical, especially concerning the government's actions and transparency ("these things don't add up"). Both logical arguments are employed (the inefficiency of the funding scheme, the risk of funds going unused) as well as emotional quotes (the shock expressed by sports managers). The speaker uses a laptop for citing sources, suggesting a presentation that is prepared yet personalized, and requests an extension of the speaking time.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches were delivered during the first reading of the Riigikogu bill, where the speaker presents their faction's position and answers questions. The speaker references having previously submitted questions to the ministry representative, as well as their long-term work as Deputy Mayor of Tallinn.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary adversary is the Ministry of Culture and the government, whose conduct is deemed dishonest and questionable due to the lack of consultation with organizations. Criticism targets both the procedure (the failure to consult) and the policy itself (an ineffective funding scheme). The speaker casts doubt on the statements made by ministry representatives, implying they are lying, and demands the decision be overturned.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker points to cooperation within the faction ("The Centre Party faction says so") and names colleagues (Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart, Tanel Tein). Additionally, the successful support agreement between the City of Tallinn and the School Sports Union, amounting to 100,000 euros, is brought up as a positive example.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (funding schemes), but a specific regional example is introduced: the support provided by the City of Tallinn to the School Sports Union. We also address the capacity of county sports associations to cope with the new system, referencing their lack of prior experience.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic stance is characterized by strong opposition to introducing new taxes, particularly the sugar tax, citing its inefficiency based on European experience (e.g., Portugal). They favor targeted subsidies (such as school sports) as a public health improvement measure, rather than raising taxes.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is public health and the prevention of childhood obesity, which is being addressed through the support of school sports. The speaker emphasizes that organizing competitions and encouraging physical activity benefits the entire nation and is a better solution than taxing sugary drinks.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on supporting a specific draft resolution of the Riigikogu (405 OE), the aim of which is to restore funding for youth school sports. This draft resolution is part of a broader package that offers an alternative to the government's proposed sugar tax plans, while emphasizing the necessity of supporting activities where EKSL excels.
3 Speeches Analyzed