Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
First Reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Penal Code and the Amendment of Other Related Acts (Increasing the Fine Unit) (Bill 415 SE)
2024-04-30
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Third Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The political position centers on strong opposition to the legislative practices of the governing coalition, emphasizing the absence of good legislative practice (HÕNTE) and necessary impact assessments. The criticism is directed at the quality of the government's actions and its disregard for procedural rules over the past year, highlighting the poor quality of the government's performance (performance-driven). The speaker demands principled adherence to laws and established practices, contrasting this with formal legalism that ignores good customs.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in legislative procedures and drafting methodology, specifically referencing the Rules of Good Legislative Drafting Technique (HÕNTE) and the necessity of conducting impact assessments. He/She is qualified to evaluate the compliance of draft legislation with sound legislative practice and to distinguish legal correctness (what *should* be done) from political convenience (what *might* be done).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and procedural, often employing irony and sarcasm, especially when describing the actions of the government and the Riigikogu Presidium. The speaker is formal yet sharp, attempting to corner opponents by asking whether the rules only apply when they themselves are not in power. He uses logical arguments to highlight the violation of procedural rules.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is too little data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main targets of opposition are the government coalition and the Minister of Justice, who are facing sharp criticism for their disregard of procedural rules and the established practice of good law-making. Criticism is also aimed at the presiding officer of the Riigikogu session for selective adherence to rules—being principled about minor regulations while ignoring the more significant ones. The resistance is strong and focuses primarily on condemning the government's working methods.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is confrontational with the government, but a reference is made to colleague Vooglaid, which indicates internal coordination within the opposition group. No readiness to compromise with the governing coalition is evident; instead, adherence to the rules is demanded. The speaker defends their right to ask questions and encourages the minister to answer at length in order to thoroughly discuss the topic.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is too little data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There is too little data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is too little data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently centered on opposing Draft Bill 415 SE (which proposes increasing the fine unit) based purely on procedural grounds. This opposition specifically demands the provision of an impact assessment and adherence to the Rules for Good Law Drafting and Normative Technique (HÕNTE). The broader objective is to restore sound legislative practice and require strict, principled compliance with the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act.
3 Speeches Analyzed