Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Inquiry regarding the school network (no. 760)
2025-06-02
15th Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the government's policy on reorganizing the school network, particularly concerning the closure of Toila Gymnasium. The speaker, based on core values, prioritizes the objective of transitioning to Estonian-language education, arguing that this goal must take precedence over school network optimization. Criticism is also aimed at the government's inconsistency in its use of demographic data (specifically, school networks versus child benefits). The political framework is primarily value- and results-driven, highlighting the unique characteristics of Ida-Virumaa.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the fields of education policy, demography, and regional statistics, particularly within the context of Ida-Virumaa (East Viru County). References are used regarding the latest census and statistics concerning the decline of the Estonian-speaking population in the county. Specific emphasis is placed on the unique characteristics of certain Ida-Virumaa local municipalities (Alutaguse, Toila, Lüganuse) where Estonians constitute the majority.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is confrontational and accusatory, posing direct questions to the minister regarding their motives and highlighting alleged hypocrisy. It employs both logical appeals (such as statistical data concerning Ida-Virumaa) and emotional language, criticizing the government for "fighting" the school community. The tone is formal, yet sharp and critical.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the government and the minister, who is being criticized for political inconsistency and mismanaging priorities. The criticism is intense, focusing on the opposition to the closure of Toila Gymnasium and comparing the government’s actions to a contrasting case in Pärnu County. The resistance is based on policy and procedure.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong regional focus on Ida-Virumaa, emphasizing the importance of Estonian-language education in this county and the rapid decline in the proportion of ethnic Estonians. Specific attention is drawn to the significance of maintaining an Estonian majority in the municipalities of Toila, Alutaguse, and Lüganuse. This regional focus is also utilized to amplify criticism of the government’s activities, often by contrasting it with the situation in Pärnumaa.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspectives are confined solely to criticizing the government's reduction of child benefits for large families, negatively linking this move to demographic goals. There are no other stated positions concerning taxes, spending, or economic growth.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is education and the transition to Estonian-medium instruction in Ida-Virumaa, which is being framed as a matter of linguistic and national preservation. Furthermore, the government's policy regarding cuts to benefits for large families is being criticized, thereby casting doubt on the government's demographic credibility.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on criticizing the government's actions and policy (the streamlining of the school network) and challenging its objectives within the framework of an interpellation. Specific new legislative initiatives or bills are not mentioned; rather, the action is directed against the existing policy.
2 Speeches Analyzed