Agenda Profile: Signe Riisalo
Draft law amending the Health Services Organisation Act (advance directive of a patient’s end-of-life will) – first reading (604 SE)
2025-04-23
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The most salient issue is patient autonomy and the statutory regulation of end-of-life declarations of will. The speaker supports the continued processing of the draft legislation, stressing its significance and sensitivity, and the necessity of respecting an individual's wishes. The approach is pragmatic and policy-driven, focusing on the nuances of implementing the law and clarifying the resulting legal ramifications.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates deep expertise at the intersection of healthcare and law, detailing the nuances of implementing end-of-life advance directives, such as the distinction between trauma and a stabilized medical condition. They employ precise legal terminology and clearly differentiate the substance of the draft legislation from euthanasia or assisted suicide. The discussion also included the practices observed in 16 analyzed countries and their potential impact on the Estonian population.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, measured, and highly procedural, acting as the commission's rapporteur who delivers a "highly pragmatic summary." The speaker employs logical arguments and factual clarification, focusing on legal and medical nuances, to achieve a "reasonable disposition."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is closely linked to legislative work and the management of the committee, reflecting recent sessions (April 14) and votes (April 23). Further extensive engagement is planned, including the minister's visits to parliamentary groups and the involvement of target groups such as the Estonian Council of Churches. The speaker’s role is to lead the proceedings.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
No direct confrontation is expressed, but critical legal and ethical concerns raised by guests Priit Sibul and Varro Vooglaid are addressed. The speaker responds to these questions with clarification, defending the content of the draft bill and refuting any connection to euthanasia. The concern that the bill might send the wrong signal to society is also dealt with.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is open and inclusive, emphasizing the necessity of involving all parliamentary groups and stakeholders for a thorough discussion of this sensitive topic. Consensus support from the Legal Affairs Committee is noted, and all members of the Riigikogu are encouraged to submit amendments. The Minister has agreed to present the draft bill to the various parliamentary groups.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation and the implementation of the health information system in Estonia. International comparisons are also referenced, specifically mentioning an analysis of the practices of 16 countries regarding advance directives. There is no local or regional focus.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social theme is patient autonomy and the right to refuse resuscitation in specific medical conditions. The speaker addresses ethical concerns, such as the potential for pressure on vulnerable individuals, emphasizing that this is not euthanasia but rather adherence to the wishes of a legally competent adult. Also crucial is the issue of training healthcare providers to offer appropriate counseling.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the Draft Act amending the Health Services Organization Act (regarding the patient's end-of-life declaration of intent) (Bill 604 SE). The speaker, representing the lead committee, proposes concluding the first reading and setting a deadline of 10 working days for submitting amendments. The objective is to ensure a thorough legislative process, which includes incorporating the opinion of the Legal Affairs Committee.
2 Speeches Analyzed