Agenda Profile: Urmas Reinsalu
Draft law (667 SE) for amending the Atmosphere Protection Act and other laws (partial transposition of amendments to the directive on greenhouse gas emissions trading system) – first reading
2025-06-18
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to draft bill 667 SE, particularly concerning the retroactive obligations and the imposition of taxes on Estonian companies. The criticism focuses on the irrationality of the government's actions and the resulting distortion of competition, which opponents have labeled "strange socialism." This stance is firmly aimed at protecting economic performance and overall competitiveness.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding greenhouse gas emission trading systems (ETS, ETS2) and the competitiveness of the maritime sector. Specific financial data is utilized (a €19 million tax and a €9 million subsidy), and international negotiations (IMO) are referenced. Emphasis is placed on the need for a comprehensive approach when safeguarding national economic interests.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative and emotional, employing strong hyperbolic comparisons ("North Korea") and rhetorical questions to underscore the sheer foolishness of the policy. The tone is direct and accusatory, addressing the opponent personally ("Andres, a reasonable man"). The style leans more toward the emotional than the purely logical, focusing heavily on the absurd.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed against the government’s policy and its representative, criticizing the logic of the policy and its consequences for Estonian businesses. The criticism is intense, accusing the government of distorting competition and disregarding national economic interests. This resistance is policy- and strategy-based.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on Estonia's national economic interests, particularly safeguarding the competitiveness of the maritime sector and Tallink as a major Estonian enterprise. The approach addresses both the national and international (EU versus global) levels, emphasizing the potential damage to global competitiveness.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly advocates for protecting business competitiveness and opposes retroactive taxes and regulations. He/She takes a negative view of state intervention that distorts the market (taxation followed by subsidization), labeling it a socialist practice. Furthermore, he/she considers the protection of Estonian enterprises in international competition to be crucial.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the opposition to the draft amendment of the Atmospheric Air Protection Act (Bill 667 SE), because it introduces retroactive obligations. It calls for the presentation of a comprehensive strategy to protect Estonian economic interests and to request a review of the ETS system.
2 Speeches Analyzed