Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
Draft law amending the Act of the Chancellor of Justice and the Prosecutor's Office Act (524 SE) – first reading
2025-01-14
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance focuses on increasing the transparency of representation expenses for state officials (such as the Chancellor of Justice and the Prosecutor General) and strengthening the control over these costs. The speaker criticizes the current system for its double standards, noting that greater transparency is required of members of the Riigikogu (Parliament) than of top officials. This position is strongly value-based, emphasizing equality and the responsible use of public funds.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the regulation and control mechanisms for the expense reimbursements and representation costs of high-ranking state officials. They know that the Chancellor of Justice and the Prosecutor General are not obligated to submit receipts on an ongoing basis, and propose a detailed alternative control mechanism (a table listing invoice numbers, to be submitted at the beginning of the year). The expertise is directed toward financial control and administrative procedures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is critical, questioning, and demands substantive discussion. The speaker employs rhetorical questions to highlight the disparity in expense transparency between Riigikogu members and ministers/officials. The government's stance is sharply criticized, being labeled "technocratic and pulled out of thin air," which suggests a certain level of combativeness.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in the legislative process, participating in the first reading of the draft bill and utilizing the time for a thorough discussion. He notes that since the agenda is light and not too dense at the start of the session, there is time to deliberate on the essence of the matter.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed at the government's stance, which fails to support increased transparency and is deemed lacking in substance. The committee's brief and superficial discussion is also implicitly criticized. The criticism is both procedural and political-substantive, centering on the absence of transparency.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker addresses colleagues directly (both by name and generally) to obtain information about the content of the committee discussions and to initiate a deeper exchange regarding the core nature of the topic. The collaborative approach is open to questions and incorporates the views of others in order to advance the debate.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic platform centers on strict control and transparency regarding public funds (specifically representation allowances and expense reimbursements). The speaker stresses the necessity of knowing precisely what the money was spent on (e.g., wine versus informational materials), indicating a strong commitment to fiscal accountability.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on Bill 524 SE, which concerns amending the Chancellor of Justice Act and the Prosecutor's Office Act. The speaker is against the system and supports amendments that would create new mechanisms for the Riigikogu to control the expenses of top officials and ensure transparency.
2 Speeches Analyzed