Session Profile: Rain Epler
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
2025-11-04
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the ratification of the foreign treaty, focusing on the costs incurred by the Estonian state and the associated security risks (specifically, the involvement of organized crime). The necessity of adhering to legislative procedures is emphasized, and access to the classified threat assessment is demanded for the discussion of the draft bill. The overall stance is primarily focused on policy and procedural norms.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed expertise regarding the nuances of international treaties and the Imprisonment Act, highlighting specific provisions concerning prisoners' rights (translation, monitoring, hot beverages) and cost coverage. Furthermore, they are well-versed in the procedural rules of the Riigikogu, particularly regarding the accessibility of classified documents (KAPO threat assessment) and the restrictions on proposing amendments to international treaties.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical and critical, focusing on logical arguments and contrasting the contract text and legal provisions with oral claims. Direct questions are employed to challenge the opposing party's assumptions (their "hope"), and the tone regarding procedural violations is insistent, urging the board to immediately call a recess.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The mode of operation is active and interventionist during the plenary session, repeatedly raising procedural questions and engaging in substantive debates regarding the foreign treaty. The speaker is actively involved in legislative oversight and ensuring the propriety of the proceedings.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary confrontation is aimed at Minister Pakosta, whose claims regarding the contract's content and the coverage of costs are considered inaccurate and contradictory to the terms of the agreement. Furthermore, the Riigikogu (Parliament) Board (Kivimägi, Hussar) is being criticized for enabling violations of the law and allowing procedural norms to be overridden, demanding that they take responsibility.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style is open to summarizing the arguments of colleagues (Vooglaid, Grünthal) who share similar viewpoints and aligning with their concerns. A proposal is made to the Board to involve the Legal Department of the Riigikogu (Parliament) to resolve procedural issues and to take a 15-minute recess.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation and the international agreement (between Estonia and Sweden), analyzing their impact on the Estonian state and the prison system. There is no regional or local focus.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic viewpoints are expressed through fiscal prudence, criticizing the potential costs and obligations associated with the foreign agreement that will fall to Estonia (e.g., damages caused by prisoners). The hope that the additional fee received from Sweden (5,000 euros) will cover all future costs is being called into question.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues relate to incarceration policy and security, encompassing prisoners' rights and living conditions in line with international requirements. Particular concern is emphasized regarding the admission of individuals associated with organized crime, which constitutes a security matter.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is centered on opposing the draft bill for the ratification of the foreign treaty, highlighting its deficiencies concerning costs and security. A significant priority is also ensuring compliance with the procedural rules of the Riigikogu, alongside the demand for guaranteed access to the classified documents required for the debate on the bill.
6 Speeches Analyzed