Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session
2024-09-25
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional, centering on sharp criticism of the government's tax increases and cuts (VAT, car tax, fuel excise duty, and reductions to hobby group funding). The main focus is on the policy's negative impact on young families and regional development, with the minister's regional policy goals being deemed utopian and merely rhetorical. Belief in the government's ability to achieve its regional policy objectives has vanished.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of demographic trends, pointing to population growth driven by external migration (Ukraine) and the Tallinn population surpassing the 600,000 threshold. Furthermore, he shows expertise in fiscal policy, specifically listing the increases in VAT, car tax, and fuel excise duty, alongside cuts to extracurricular activities.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical and questioning, casting doubt on the minister's optimism and capacity for action. Logical arguments (the impact of taxes on families) and rhetorical questions are employed to challenge the government's future plans and demand concrete steps ("what can you actually accomplish from this podium besides just talking").
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker referenced their activities as a member of the Tallinn City Council, mentioning data they had seen there only yesterday, which demonstrates activity at both the local and national levels. The address was delivered during a plenary session of the Riigikogu as a question directed to a minister.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opposition is aimed at the policies of the minister and the government, fiercely criticizing the tax increases and cuts that undermine regional policy objectives. The criticism is intense and substantive, demanding that the government halt further tax hikes and calling into question the minister's promise to "put a stop" to policies that run counter to regional development.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong regional focus is directed at the difficulties facing rural areas and the inefficiency of regional policy, contrasting this with the growing population of the City of Tallinn. The speaker is affiliated with the Tallinn City Council and emphasizes that tax increases make rural life particularly challenging for young, energetic families.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views expressed are firmly against tax hikes, particularly those that impact families (such as VAT, the proposed car tax, and fuel excise duties). It favors a fiscal policy that supports the financial sustainability of families and lowers the cost of living in rural areas, standing in direct opposition to the government's current austerity measures.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus among social issues is placed on supporting children and families, with criticism directed at government cuts that specifically target extracurricular activities, essentially coming at the expense of families. This puts the economic and social well-being of families at the heart of the political discussion.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is aimed at opposing existing tax legislation (VAT, excise duties, car tax) and resisting budget cuts. The primary objective is to compel the government to drop further planned tax hikes, thereby acting in opposition to the government's fiscal policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed