Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
First Reading of the Draft Act on the Ratification of the Agreement between the Republic of Estonia and the Kingdom of Sweden concerning the Execution of Kingdom of Sweden Prison Sentences in the Republic of Estonia (682 SE)
2025-11-04
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The speaker is vehemently opposed to the ratification of the agreement between Estonia and Sweden concerning the enforcement of prison sentences (682 SE), focusing primarily on the hidden costs and legal liabilities that would fall upon the Estonian state. The speaker sharply criticizes the financial projections put forth by the government (Ms. Pakosta) and stresses the necessity of adhering to the law, demanding access to the classified threat assessment. Their position is strongly rooted in policy and procedural regulations.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates in-depth knowledge of the specifics of international treaties and the Estonian Imprisonment Act, pointing out concrete distinctions (e.g., visual monitoring, provision of drinking water). They are also proficient in financial analysis, questioning whether the sum paid to Sweden (€8500) is sufficient to cover all related costs. Furthermore, they exhibit expertise regarding the procedural rules of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) and matters concerning the classification of documents.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is analytical, detailed, and often interrogative, directing sharp criticism straight at the Minister (Ms. Pakosta) regarding the interpretation of the contract. The tone is insistent on procedural matters, demanding a board recess to prevent a violation of the law. He/She employs logical arguments, referencing specific articles and financial figures, and proposes an ironic solution (a proofreader/language editor) to correct the Minister's inaccuracies.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during the first reading of the draft bill, repeatedly submitting substantive questions and procedural motions to the Chair. His pattern of activity includes immediately responding to the minister's assertions and demanding the suspension of the proceedings due to the lack of necessary documentation.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the government, represented by Ms. Pakosta, whose policies and interpretation of the contract are being called into question. Furthermore, the critic targets the Riigikogu board (Arvo, Kivimägi, Hussar) for enabling legal violations and allowing procedural rules to be overridden. The criticism is intense and focuses on both political aspects (costs, risks) and procedural aspects (secrecy/classification, availability of documents).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker referenced the earlier positions of colleagues (Vooglaid, Grünthal) to conclude his procedural point, demonstrating cooperation with opposition members who share similar views. He is demanding consultation from the management board and the legal department, but this is less about seeking a compromise and more about demanding the correction of a procedural error.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker's focus is entirely on national and international issues, covering the treaty between the Republic of Estonia and the Kingdom of Sweden, as well as the procedural norms of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament). Notably, there are no references whatsoever to specific local or regional interests within Estonia.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker expresses strong fiscal skepticism, stressing that Estonia is committing itself to covering all costs arising from international claims and damages caused by prisoners that exceed the compensation paid by Sweden. He/She hints that both Swedish officials (avoiding empty slots) and Estonian officials (receiving money) have a financial motivation to move forward with the agreement, despite the risks.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker specializes in criminal law and security matters, highlighting the risk that individuals who are radicalized or linked to organized crime (gangs) could be brought into Estonia. They are demanding clear contractual guarantees to prevent the admission of such individuals, prioritizing national security above all else.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is on opposing the draft act (682 SE) concerning the ratification of the agreement between the Republic of Estonia and the Kingdom of Sweden regarding the enforcement of prison sentences. He/She focuses on procedural improvements (availability of documents) and inquires about the possibility of introducing amendments to international agreements.
6 Speeches Analyzed