Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-11-04
Political Position
The political stance is strongly oppositional, criticizing the government's actions for deepening regional inequality and cutting support for vulnerable groups (pensioners in care homes). The speaker emphasizes that the government's actions (tax hikes, centralization of services) are diametrically opposed to the regional policy principles stated by the ministers themselves. The criticism is aimed at the inefficiency of the government's activities and the violation of value-based promises.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding regional policy (the availability of public services, urban sprawl, regional backwardness) and budget cuts in the social sector. Specific financial data is utilized (a cut of 1.35 million euros, a 200-euro benefit) and examples are provided of state institutions (the Tax and Customs Board, the Social Insurance Board) relocating from county centers. Separately, the necessity of cross-sectoral cooperation in regional policy is emphasized.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and sharp, employing powerful metaphors such as "magicians and illusionists" and referencing the proverb that "continuous dripping water wears away a stone." The tone is formal but includes both logical argumentation (the impact of taxes) and emotional appeal (the protection of vulnerable people). The speaker quotes the ministers' previous statements to highlight the contradiction between their actions and their stated principles.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Action patterns indicate active participation in the plenary sessions of the Riigikogu, where questions are posed to ministers. The speaker closely monitors the previous statements and actions of government members, making precise references to the speeches and promises made in September.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is aimed at the government as a whole, and particularly at Regional Minister Piret Hartman and Social Protection Minister Signe Riisalo. The criticism is intense and policy-based, accusing the government of sharply increasing regional inequality and taking what little vulnerable people have left. The opponents are being labeled as magicians who are engaging in sleight of hand.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker praises the Regional Minister for answering honestly, politely, and without condescension, while making an effort to understand those asking the questions. However, there is no direct mention of cooperation or willingness to compromise with the government; instead, the fundamental opposition to the government's activities is stressed.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is extremely strong, centered on ensuring the vitality of rural and peripheral areas and reducing regional inequality. A specific example cited is the departure of state institutions (the Tax and Customs Board and the Social Insurance Board) from Põlva, which negatively impacts the local living environment. It is emphasized that rural areas will decline and become unsustainable if public services are lacking.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are strongly opposed to tax increases (VAT, fuel excise duty, car tax), arguing that they disproportionately harm the livelihoods of rural residents and exacerbate inequality. We support protecting the incomes of vulnerable groups (pensioners) from cuts. We favor policies that promote regional development, rather than "timid and unambitious sustainable degrowth."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In social policy discussions, emphasis is placed on the necessity of maintaining support for vulnerable pensioners (those in general and special care), as they cannot advocate for themselves. Cuts made at the expense of children and families (specifically funding for extracurricular activities) are criticized, as these cuts make rural life impossible for young families. The overall objective is to ensure social protection and a sense of security for everyone.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed at opposing the government's budget cuts and tax hikes. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of implementing a regional policy principle, stipulating that no draft legislation should be approved until its impact on inter-regional disparities has been assessed. Specific legislative proposals that have been initiated are not mentioned; instead, the focus remains on criticizing the government's decisions.
2 Speeches Analyzed