By Plenary Sessions: Vadim Belobrovtsev

The speaker demonstrates a strong grasp of integration policy, citing the complexities surrounding citizenship acquisition and referencing international best practices (specifically the Nordic countries). They possess a detailed understanding of the administrative burden and financial challenges faced by local municipalities (LMs) in the education sector, specifically analyzing the sustainability of European Social Fund (ESF+) financing. The argument is bolstered by extensive reliance on the views of recognized experts (such as Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise and former KAPO Director Arnold Sinisalu) to underscore the absence of a security risk.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in social security administration matters, citing precise data regarding the impact of the change (325,000 pensioners) and the resulting financial savings (21,000 euros). The topic focuses on technological constraints and the necessity of IT investments, pointing out that in a digital state, payment dates should not be dependent on the weekend.

The speaker demonstrates expertise on the topic of scam calls, presenting specific statistical data regarding the number of victims and the financial losses incurred in Estonia. They are familiar with the Minister of the Interior's previous responses and reference international legislative solutions (USA, UK, Australia) concerning the liability of banks and telecommunications operators. Furthermore, they are aware of the communication preferences of the target group (the elderly).

The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the structure of the state budget, criticizing activity-based budgeting as opaque and citing the National Audit Office's devastating assessment. He/She is familiar with the details of public sector salary levels (teachers, police officers, rescuers) and specific tax increases (excise duties, state fees, and the fourfold increase in specialist doctor visit fees). Clarifying questions were also posed concerning the financing of local governments and specific details within the explanatory memorandum (the visit fee for pregnant women).

The speaker demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the state budget details, referencing tax hikes, excise duty increases, and the fourfold rise in the specialist doctor's visit fee. They are also familiar with the objectives of the security tax and the issues surrounding the administration of its revenue. Furthermore, they show an understanding of the activities of the Ministry of the Interior and the planned amendments to the Churches and Congregations Act.

The speaker demonstrates knowledge when comparing Estonian and European public holiday legislation, noting that Estonia is one of only three exceptions in Europe. They refer to the history of previous legislation (the addition of Christmas Eve in 2005) and are able to refute economic and religious objections, basing their arguments on logic and the productivity argument.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in macroeconomic comparisons, highlighting the length of Estonia's recession and how it contrasts sharply with the economic growth seen across the rest of the European Union. Specific timeframes (post-February 24, 2022) and statistical claims (that it is the only country in recession) are used to evaluate the situation.

The speaker demonstrates knowledge in the field of regional policy (relocation of state institutions to rural areas) and social policy (inequality in budget cuts). They are particularly detailed regarding legislative procedures, referencing the appendices of the explanatory memorandum, the work of the Culture Committee, and the importance of involving interest groups (including local governments and sports organizations). They also have specific questions concerning the Sports Act (doping rules).