Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
The 2024 Report by the Minister of Health on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"
2024-03-19
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is fiercely opposed to the government’s activities, particularly concerning the withdrawal of €101,000 in funding for extracurricular activities for large families, which is viewed as the harassment of those families. The speaker stresses the importance of needs-based support and advocates for channeling sugar tax revenues into restoring children’s health and tackling obesity. The focus is value-driven, centered on social justice and the welfare of children.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of social policy and family benefits, highlighting a specific amount that was cut (€101,000) and the criteria for the support (needs-based, rural areas, four children). Their knowledge also covers the links related to health promotion funding, connecting the sugar tax with the goal of reducing obesity. Furthermore, awareness is noted regarding ministry management and discussions within the Social Affairs Committee.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is direct, demanding, and critical, employing strong emotional language (e.g., "to bully") to condemn the actions of the government. The speaker poses direct questions and demands specific proposals from the minister, while simultaneously stressing that they had previously briefed the minister on the matter. The appeals are a blend of logical facts (a specific sum of money) and an emotional sense of justice.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active during Riigikogu sittings, posing follow-up questions to the minister and referencing detailed discussions held previously, both in the plenary chamber and within the Social Affairs Committee. This demonstrates consistent engagement in monitoring the specifics of policy and holding the government accountable. This pattern of action also involves highlighting the lack of cooperation between ministers.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main confrontation is with the Minister of Health and the government, who are criticized for their ignorance regarding budget cuts and for burdening families by introducing new taxes. The criticism is aimed at specific political decisions (the withdrawal of funding) and the lack of coordination in the ministry's leadership (a reference to joint management by two ministers). The standoff is intense and demands specific remedial actions.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperative approach is evident in the attempt to direct the minister to propose to their colleague (Signe Riisalo) that the revenues from the sugar tax be allocated for a specific purpose. This is more of a pressure tactic than genuine cooperation. Direct collaboration with other Riigikogu members is not mentioned, although reference is made to previous discussions held in the chamber.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is clearly on rural areas, as the withdrawn funding for extracurricular activities was specifically aimed at those regions. The necessity of ensuring children's mobility and support outside of major cities is emphasized.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker opposes specific social cuts (101,000 euros) and supports targeted taxation, demanding that the revenue from the sugar tax be channeled into restoring children's health. This perspective favors funding social needs through family support, standing in opposition to austerity measures.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Key social issues include supporting large families, ensuring the accessibility of children's extracurricular activities, and reducing childhood obesity. The focus is on needs-based support that would guarantee children's physical activity and health, particularly for schoolchildren residing in rural areas.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently aimed at reversing budget cuts and influencing the implementation of the forthcoming sugar tax law. The speaker insists that the tax revenue be specifically earmarked to improve children's health and reduce obesity. The speaker opposes the proposed budget amendments and is the initiator of a specific financing scheme.
1 Speeches Analyzed