Agenda Profile: Margit Sutrop

The speaker, representing the Reform Party, is a strong proponent of the draft Preschool Education Act (419 SE), underscoring the critical necessity and long-awaited nature of its adoption. The political focus is aimed at standardizing the education system (by transferring childcare facilities under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education and Research) and guaranteeing quality and equal opportunities. The bill's framework is predominantly policy- and value-driven, emphasizing the constitutional prohibition against discrimination based on language.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the field of early childhood education, providing detailed information regarding the bill's legislative process (including amendment numbers and voting results) and financing (specifically, the local government contribution of 390 million euros, or 500 euros per child per month). They reference academic sources (Jaak Aaviksoo, Birute Klaas-Lang) and their own 15 years of experience analyzing kindergartens and supporting the language transition in Ida-Viru County. This expertise also encompasses pedagogical principles, such as child-centered education and specific qualification requirements (a Master's degree for directors).

The speech is highly formal, detailed, and analytical, focusing on a comprehensive presentation of the steering committee's workflow and the substance of the proposed amendments. Logical and legal arguments are emphasized (Constitution, Section 37; prohibition of discrimination), and extensive statistics are utilized. The tone is generally businesslike and compromise-seeking, becoming defensive and philosophical when rejecting the proposals put forth by Isamaa, in order to clarify the principle of equality.

The speaker's work profile involves intensive legislative and committee activity, specifically citing four sessions of the Culture Committee (June 11, October 8, November 19, December 2) and close cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Research. He/She has actively served as a liaison for interest groups (ten organizations), arranging multiple meetings with them and providing written responses to their proposals. Furthermore, the speaker has actively participated in education projects in Ida-Viru County.

The primary opposition is directed at the amendment proposals put forward by the Isamaa faction, particularly those concerning the preferential treatment of Estonian-speaking children when forming groups. The criticism leveled against them is grounded in both policy and constitutional law, arguing that such a proposal would result in segregation and discrimination based on language, which is fundamentally contrary to the constitution. The speaker firmly rejects these proposals, citing the committee's voting results (2 in favour, 6 against).

The speaker demonstrates a strong spirit of cooperation, highlighting the successful achievement of consensus with local governments (KOV-s) and the Ministry of Education and Research. He/She mentions that 29 amendments were prepared in collaboration with the ministry and that considerable effort was expended working with the KOV-s to find a suitable solution regarding the deadlines for offering kindergarten places. This cooperation is purposeful and aimed at ensuring the practical implementation of the law.

The speaker is focused on national legislation, but they also pay significant attention to the role and concerns of local governments (KOV), specifically referencing the Harju County Municipalities Association and the Tartu City Government. Particular emphasis is placed on personal work experience in Ida-Viru County supporting the transition to Estonian-language education.

The speaker stressed the significant funding allocated to early childhood education, pointing out the massive contribution made by local municipalities (390 million euros) and the minimal parental contribution (just 9% of running costs). He supports granting local governments autonomy when determining the daily cost of food, arguing that the law should not mandate requirements that are impossible to realistically implement (referencing procurement processes and the inherent differences among kindergartens).

The speaker focuses on the social aspects of education, particularly the creation of equal opportunities and the transition to Estonian-language education. They advocate for the position that every child has a constitutional right to Estonian-language education and oppose all forms of linguistic segregation. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on raising qualification requirements and considering the child's well-being when forming groups.

The main legislative priority is the adoption of the draft Basic Education Act (Bill 419 SE), for which he/she is the rapporteur for the second reading. As a supporter and representative of the leading committee, he/she is an active shaper of the law, having reached agreements on integrating childcare services into the education system, the deadlines for offering places, and the establishment of qualification requirements. The goal is the final vote on the bill on December 11.