Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Inquiry Regarding the Pihlakodu Case and the Safety of Care Homes (no. 750)
2025-06-03
15th Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session
Political Position
The primary focus is the demand for state accountability and ensuring the safety of nursing homes, triggered by the Pihlakodu case. The political position is sharply critical of the current supervisory system, which is deemed vague and lacks sufficient sanctioning powers. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of acknowledging the failures of the care reform and re-evaluating it to guarantee the dignity and security of the elderly. The speaker identifies as a member of a right-wing party, supporting the private sector while simultaneously calling for a robust national system and regulation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding social welfare and oversight mechanisms, citing the limited authority of the Social Insurance Board (SKA) and deficiencies in the chain of command. Data from the National Audit Office's audits are utilized, particularly concerning the funding model and the increasing cost of nursing home placements. Knowledge is also demonstrated on the topics of crime prevention and the qualifications of care workers, emphasizing the critical role of prevention.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is predominantly serious, concerned, and urgent, specifically stressing the appalling nature of the Pihlakodu case and its link to the issue of national dignity. Both emotional appeals (fear, dignity) and logical arguments are employed, citing State Audit Office reports and deficiencies in legislation. The speaker maintains a formal register but strives to keep the topic in the public spotlight to prevent it from fading from memory.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the inquiry directed at the ministers and refers to their previous involvement in a meeting of the Social Affairs Committee and the ministerial working group. The necessity of keeping this topic regularly on the agenda is stressed to ensure continued collaboration between the ministries.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is directed at the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Justice because they have failed to provide clear answers regarding accountability and the prevention of hiring individuals with criminal records. The 2022 care reform and its funding model are also under fire, as the model favors the profits of administrative firms at the expense of affordability. The critique is both procedural and policy-based, demanding systemic changes.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker expresses agreement with and support for the previously speaking colleague, Helmen Kütt, acknowledging her expertise. The need for continued cooperation between the two ministries (the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Justice) in order to develop solutions is also emphasized.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strictly at the national level, addressing the Estonian care home system, population aging, and the responsibility of the ministries. Specific regional or local topics are not mentioned.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
As a member of a right-wing party, the speaker supports the private sector and entrepreneurship, but criticizes the current system where the profits of care home operators take precedence. They are calling for a review of the financing model to strike a fair balance between the operator's profit margin and the affordability of the service. Furthermore, the need for motivated entrepreneurs who offer competitive wages and maintain a high standard of care is stressed.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around the safety, dignity, and protection of the elderly from abuse in nursing homes—a critical concern in a society with an aging population. Emphasis is placed on the need for trained care staff, alongside worries about the rising cost of nursing home placements, which makes them unrealistic for those relying on an average pension. The debate between increasing security measures and restricting personal freedoms is also mentioned.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is on strengthening oversight mechanisms and establishing accountability, raising the question of whether the law should explicitly designate the responsible party. There is a demand for acknowledging the failures of the care reform and seriously overhauling its operating model, which indicates a need for new legislation.
3 Speeches Analyzed