Agenda Profile: Helir-Valdor Seeder
Draft law amending the Cooperative Savings and Loan Societies Act and, in connection therewith, amending other laws (671 SE) – first reading
2025-09-09
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session.
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to Government Bill 671 SE, which would essentially liquidate savings and loan associations (SLAs) through mandatory restructuring. This stance is value-driven and policy-focused, emphasizing that such action constitutes a disproportionate restriction on entrepreneurial freedom and runs contrary to the spirit of the constitution. The proposed solution is to strengthen supervision, rather than resorting to the forced liquidation of the business form.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the role of credit unions in the Estonian economy and regional life, as well as the history of their regulation, referencing the 2010 legislative amendments. This expertise is evident in the field of financial regulation, comparing the scale of damages caused by credit unions and banks, and emphasizing the necessity of responsible supervision.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is critical, factual, and exacting, particularly concerning the government's actions, which are labeled radical and unreasonable. Both logical arguments (such as reduced competition and constitutional conflicts) and specific examples (like the Leie Credit Union) are utilized. Furthermore, the second speech draws sharp attention to parliamentary procedures and culture, criticizing the "military regime."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the legislative process, participating in the first reading with a lengthy address and requesting additional time. This pattern demonstrates a readiness to intervene both in substantive debates and to submit procedural motions to the chair, as well as to criticize the conduct of ministers regarding their attendance in the chamber.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main confrontation is against the government-initiated bill and the policy aimed at its abolition, demanding the rejection of the bill. Criticism is also directed at the inflexibility of the session chairman and the disrespect shown towards the parliament by the ministers (Defense Minister Pevkur and the Finance Minister), as they left the chamber during the debate.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
No data available
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The text emphasizes the significant role of credit unions in Estonia's regional and rural life. The Leie Credit Union is highlighted as a specific example, demonstrating the focus on local and rural financial institutions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports entrepreneurial freedom and competition in the financial sector, opposing the state-mandated forced liquidation of a specific type of business entity. It favors credit unions (HLÜs) because they offer services significantly cheaper, faster, and more flexibly than "overly bureaucratized banks." It supports oversight that guarantees market diversity and responsible utilization.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the rejection of Bill 671 SE, initiated by the Government of the Republic, during its first reading. There is a demand for the drafting of a new bill that would focus on strengthening the oversight of savings and loan associations and addressing the substantive issues facing these unions, rather than liquidating them. Furthermore, attention is focused on adherence to parliamentary rules of procedure and the culture of debate.
2 Speeches Analyzed