Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-10-21
Political Position
The speaker is in strong opposition to the government's economic policy, sharply criticizing decisions made in haste and the lack of impact assessments, particularly concerning the profit tax. He/She challenges the government's narrative that opposing tax increases is anti-security or amounts to supporting Kremlin talking points. The political focus is directed toward criticizing the inefficiency of the government's actions and the consequences of the economic downturn.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a profound knowledge of economic and social policy, particularly concerning the pension system (Pillar II), tax policy (profit tax, tax cascade), and the financing of care homes. They utilize arguments grounded in the effects of inflation and indexation, and quote prison service experts (Priit Kama) and media outlets.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is predominantly combative and confrontational, especially toward the Minister of Finance, whom they accuse of labeling, demagoguery, and arrogant behavior. They employ strong emotional appeals (for instance, calling the claims regarding the profitability of the second pillar "a hideous lie") and blend personal, rational experience (paying off a home loan) with political criticism.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the plenary debates, repeatedly referencing last week's discussions and posing questions to the ministers. He notes that he has met with representatives of the business sector alongside the Isamaa faction, which indicates active engagement with interest groups.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary adversary is the government, particularly the Minister of Finance, who faces criticism regarding both policy (the tax cascade, lack of impact assessments) and procedural and personal aspects (name-calling, moralizing, and avoiding debate). The criticism is intense, and no willingness to compromise has been expressed; instead, they are demanding clear answers and a vision.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker referenced cooperation within their own party (Isamaa), particularly during meetings with business owners. They expressed solidarity with female colleagues whom the minister allegedly criticized from the podium. There is no information available regarding cross-party cooperation or the search for compromises.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker emphasizes that the government's tax cascade is primarily strangling "families in rural areas." He/She compares Estonia's economic situation unfavorably with its "Baltic neighbors" (Lithuania), highlighting the decline of Estonian competitiveness on the international stage.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is vehemently opposed to the tax hikes and the new profit tax, arguing that they undermine competitiveness and will push the economy into decline. He supports the business sector, criticizing the government's dismissive attitude and the growing administrative burden. He believes the budget must be an instrument for supporting economic growth, not merely a tool for balancing an Excel spreadsheet.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker addresses concerns within the social sector, criticizing both the failure to deliver on the promised availability of care home placements and the negative impact of the prison service reform (specifically, double cell occupancy) on inmate reintegration and overall security.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker's focus is on criticizing and opposing existing and proposed legislation, particularly tax laws (profit tax, cascading tax). They demand adequate solutions and impact assessments from the government before these laws are adopted, thereby positioning themselves primarily in the role of an opponent and scrutinizer.
8 Speeches Analyzed