Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Second reading of the draft law amending the Social Welfare Act (pensioner support) (508 SE)
2024-11-14
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session.
Political Position
The political stance is one of strong opposition to the draft amendment (508 SE) of the Social Welfare Act, which involves withdrawing the pensioner's allowance from residents of care homes. This position is framed by value-based criticism, calling the cut a cynical and humiliating act directed at the most vulnerable target group. Emphasis is placed on the government breaking its promises regarding the taxation of pensions and the failure of the second pension pillar.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of social welfare and pension policy, citing specific figures (1.3–1.5 million euros annually, 6,000 affected individuals) and provisions of the draft legislation. A detailed critique is offered regarding the increase in nursing home fees (up to 40%) and the failure to deliver on the promises of the social welfare reform. Furthermore, there is knowledge of the historical context surrounding the indexing and taxation of pension pillars.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical and emotional, employing strong moral appeals, particularly concerning the dignity and vulnerability of the elderly. The words "cynical" and "paltry sum" are used repeatedly to emphasize the unethical nature of the cut compared to its minor financial impact on the state budget. The style is confrontational, posing direct questions and referencing previous promises that the government has broken.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is limited to participation in the Riigikogu session and the discussion of the second reading of the specific draft act (508 SE). The speaker makes a formal proposal to suspend the reading of the bill. Data regarding other events, meetings, or regular communication is absent.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is intense and aimed squarely at the governing coalition and its leading party, who stand accused of constantly breaking their promises and sowing widespread uncertainty. The criticism targets both unethical behavior (cuts made at the expense of the vulnerable) and political failures (the breaking of promises regarding pension pillars and tax commitments). There is also opposition to the earlier policies of the Reform Party under Siim Kallas, which allegedly showed respect for pensions.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely national, dealing with the nationwide social welfare legislation, the pension system, and tax policy that impacts all seniors. Specific regions, industries, or local projects are not mentioned.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are focused on maintaining social benefits and oppose cuts that affect the most vulnerable, considering the 1.3 million euro saving insignificant. The government's fiscal policy is criticized, especially the taxation of the average pension and the introduction of a new 2% broad-based tax levied from the very first euro. It is emphasized that a large portion of these pensions returns to the state as taxes.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the welfare, dignity, and income protection of the elderly, especially concerning those residing in care homes, who are considered the most vulnerable target group. Emphasis is placed on the need for respect toward the generation that survived the horrors of the Second World War and the occupation, and the state's neglect is criticized.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing Draft Act 508 SE, which proposes amendments to the Social Welfare Act (concerning the pensioner allowance). The speaker is a strong opponent of the bill and initiated the motion to suspend its second reading. The goal is to preserve the single-living pensioner's allowance for individuals residing in care homes.
4 Speeches Analyzed