Session Profile: Rain Epler
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Information Hour
2025-10-15
Political Position
The speaker’s positions are strongly opposed to the government’s policy in three areas: the prioritized development of renewable energy, which increases systemic risk and cost, and the EU climate targets (LULUCF). He/She also demands an exemption for Estonia from the quota-based distribution of refugees under the EU Migration Pact, citing the large number of Ukrainian war refugees. These positions are primarily policy- and results-driven, emphasizing economic damage and systemic risk.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of systemic problems within the energy sector, referring to the analysis of the Spanish blackout and the warnings issued by system operators. Specific terms such as "intermittent power" and the "LULUCF sector" are used, emphasizing the need to rely on global experience and expert assessments. He/She is aware of the details of the European Council discussions, particularly Poland's positions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Toon is critical, demanding, and at times ironic, particularly when addressing the Prime Minister, whom he accuses of selecting the wrong experts and failing to provide an adequate information package. He employs logical appeals, relying on documents and examples drawn from foreign countries (Spain, Poland). His questions are often presented as direct recommendations or demands aimed at altering the government's action plan.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches were delivered during the Riigikogu information session, indicating regular participation in government oversight mechanisms. This activity is timed to coincide with the upcoming European Council, whose topics (the migration pact and climate goals) he actively addresses.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is leveled at the Prime Minister and their team, accusing them of having a "love affair with haphazard electricity developments" and failing to gather adequate expert information. Furthermore, he procedurally criticizes the Speaker of the Riigikogu, noting that the Speaker tends to respond with sharp disapproval or reproach when the questions are not to his liking. The criticism is primarily policy-based and procedural.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasizes the need for international cooperation, recommending that Estonia team up with Poland. The goal of this cooperation is to secure a joint exemption from the migration pact quotas and to work together toward reducing the obligations arising from climate targets.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is heavily international and centered on the European Union, addressing European Council topics and obligations arising from EU directives. It refers to specific foreign countries (Poland and Spain) as either political partners or cautionary examples.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker opposes the preferential development of renewable energy, arguing that it makes the entire system extremely expensive and drives up prices. He/She defends the Estonian forestry sector, demanding that LULUCF obligations be reviewed and adjusted in order to alleviate the economic burden.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses on immigration policy, demanding that Estonia, similarly to Poland, apply for an exemption from the EU Migration Pact regarding the acceptance of quota refugees and the payment of fines. The reason cited is the very large number of war refugees from Ukraine currently residing in Estonia.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on easing and adjusting international obligations and EU regulations (the Migration Pact, climate targets). The priority is reviewing Estonia's LULUCF obligations and securing a derogation from the Migration Pact, rather than initiating domestic draft legislation.
3 Speeches Analyzed