Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-05-02
Political Position
Politically, the speaker positions himself as a strong opponent of the sugar tax, criticizing it as merely a measure to fill the budget that fails to address actual health issues. He emphasizes the importance of good legislative practice and stakeholder inclusion, accusing the government of hypocrisy for ignoring the opinions of producers. Furthermore, a value-based position is crucial regarding the protection of religious freedom and the feelings of believers, supporting the plea made by the Council of Churches.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the effects of tax policy and substitution effects, citing as an example the potential increase in the consumption of bakery products following the taxation of sweetened beverages. He/She emphasizes the need for science-based studies and examples from other countries, and is well-versed in legislative procedures and the principles of engagement. Furthermore, the speaker shows knowledge of Estonian cultural history and the church’s connections to the National Awakening period.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is direct, critical, and occasionally confrontational, employing strong judgments such as "hypocritical" and "a masterclass in demagoguery." They combine logical arguments (the substitution effect, lack of inclusion) with emotional and value-based appeals, defending the "delicate feelings" of believers and religious freedom. Rhetorical questions are used to underscore the opposing side's lack of comprehension and incompetence.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was highly active during the plenary session, repeatedly raising questions throughout the day concerning both economic policy (the sugar tax) and procedural and value-based issues (freedom of religion). This points to a high level of engagement and a readiness to intervene in diverse debates. No external meetings or trips were mentioned in the addresses.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker sharply criticized the minister for ignoring proposals from entrepreneurs and resorting to demagoguery, specifically by comparing food producers to tobacco manufacturers. He also attacked fellow member Juku-Kalle Raid for offering inappropriate judgments and displaying ignorance of cultural history, further accusing him of insulting the feelings of religious believers. The criticism targets the political substance, procedural matters, and personal conduct exhibited in the chamber.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker stresses the necessity of hearing out and considering the opinions of producers, experts, and the Council of Churches, thereby demonstrating openness to the inclusion of experts and stakeholders. He also notes the cooperation with the Isamaa faction in supporting the declaration on religious freedom, signaling a readiness to consolidate support on value-based topics.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Insufficient data. (The speech focuses on national tax policy and parliamentary procedures.)
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is critical of the government's tax policy, which they believe is primarily aimed at filling the budget rather than improving public health. They defend the interests of businesses, demanding more equitable treatment for different food groups and that producers' opinions be taken into account when implementing taxes.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker adopts a strong position in defense of religious freedom and the protection of believers' feelings, demanding that the President of the Council of Churches be heard and criticizing statements that are offensive to religious sentiment. They link the church's role to Estonian national identity and the Age of National Awakening.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is opposing the sweetened drinks tax bill, demanding that it either be broadened and made fairer, or rejected altogether. Furthermore, he/she is active in supporting parliamentary procedural matters and value-based declarations (such as religious freedom).
4 Speeches Analyzed