First Reading of the Motor Vehicle Tax Bill (364 SE)
Session: 15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Date: 2024-02-14 17:16
Participating Politicians:
Total Speeches: 154
Membership: 15
Agenda Duration: 2h 34m
AI Summaries: 154/154 Speeches (100.0%)
Analysis: Structured Analysis
Politicians Speaking Time
Politicians
Analysis
Summary
The plenary session of the Riigikogu debated the first reading of the draft Motor Vehicle Tax Act (364 SE), initiated by the Government of the Republic. The session was accompanied by strong political tensions and repeated acts of obstruction, during which opposition members (primarily EKRE) blocked the speaker's podium and used sound devices, creating a humming noise and disrupting the presentation. This forced the presiding officer to repeatedly restore order and even call a five-minute recess. Minister of Finance Mart Võrklaev introduced the bill, emphasizing its three main objectives: environmental protection (reducing car dependency and favoring more economical vehicles), budget revenue (an estimated 236 million euros annually), and considering ability to pay (an age component for private individuals). The Minister defended the tax formula, which takes into account CO2 emissions, vehicle mass, and age, and rejected accusations of retroactive taxation. He explained that the tax was designed to affect urban areas more, where alternatives exist, and that it is fairer than raising the fuel excise duty. The opposition (Centre Party, Isamaa, EKRE) sharply criticized the bill, calling it an unfair tax war against the people, especially residents of rural areas, large families, and people with disabilities. A bank tax was proposed as an alternative. Jevgeni Ossinovski presented the report of the Finance Committee, providing an overview of the discussion and procedural decisions made during the committee session, which also provoked protest from the opposition. Following the negotiations, three opposition factions submitted a proposal to reject the bill in the first reading. The proposal did not find support in the vote, and the first reading was concluded.
Decisions Made 3
The proposal by the factions of the Centre Party, Isamaa, and the Conservative People's Party of Estonia to reject draft bill 364 during its first reading was not supported (27 votes in favor, 52 against).
The first reading of Bill 364 was concluded.
The deadline for the submission of amendments was set for February 28th at 5:15 PM.
Most Active Speaker
Andrei Korobeinik (Centre Party, opposition) was one of the most active questioners and delivered a long speech on behalf of the parliamentary group, sharply criticizing both the substance of the draft bill and the working procedures of the Finance Committee.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi announced that we were moving on to the first item on the agenda for the discussion of the first reading of Draft Act 364 on the Motor Vehicle Tax Act, and asked Minister of Finance Mart Võrklaev to deliver his presentation.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
The purpose of the motor vehicle tax is to reduce car dependency, increase sustainable mobility, and promote the use of environmentally friendly vehicles, because Estonia's vehicle fleet is outdated and polluting, and there are approximately 700 vehicles registered per 1,000 inhabitants.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi requested that the Minister of Finance continue his presentation, even as a dispute raged in the hall and allegations were made that the presiding officer was violating procedure.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev voiced concern that larger and more polluting new cars are being purchased in Estonia, noting that the 2022 European Union average CO2 emission upon registration of new vehicles was 180 g/km, while in Estonia it was 142 g/km—the highest in Europe.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Helir-Valdor Seeder to ask a question and requested that the microphone be handed to him.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
The main message is that work cannot be done because the Minister of Finance and his associate cannot be heard, and the content is incomprehensible. Therefore, a solution must be found, for example, taking a recess and convening the Council of Elders. Furthermore, the minister should deliver the presentation from the podium, not the gallery box.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi said that he agrees with the remark, but asked Martin Helme to call Kalle Grünthal to order so that he would not block the speaker's stand; if he does block it, the Minister of Finance will go directly to the stand; he will take a Speaker's recess for five minutes and ask Helir-Valdor Seeder to speak with Grünthal so that the proceedings may continue normally.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The Chair announced the end of the recess, and we are resuming the plenary session, asking Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev to continue.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev stressed that carbon emissions from the transport sector are one of the most acute environmental problems globally, and finding a solution has become a significant challenge.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi said that compared to EKRE's undertakings—when sound equipment is brought into the chamber—the parliamentary lack of culture of our eastern neighbor pales in comparison, and this is very embarrassing, and that is their signature style, which is why there is no point in being upset about the Supreme Court.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev introduced the motor vehicle tax as a two-part tax system (registration and annual tax), incorporating CO2 and mass components, along with an age multiplier. The goal is to reduce emissions, ensure fiscal capacity and easy collection, and generate approximately 236 million euros annually for the state to fund transport, road construction, and public transport, as well as to implement a mobility reform.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi thanked the minister and asked Martin Helme to stop blocking the work of the Riigikogu, show respect to his colleagues, and continue the question and answer session.
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin thanked the presiding officer, requested permission to ask a question, and stated that he opposes the motor vehicle tax.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi makes a brief statement: "I will take...", and then addresses a request to Aleksandr Tšaplõgin.
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin requests an explanation of the logic and criticizes the imposition of the car tax, which harms all Estonian residents, while the chamber discusses procedural issues.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi said, "I'll take it," but a voice from the chamber responded, "There's no point in taking it."
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
He expresses confusion regarding his actions and asks what he is guilty of.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi confirms that Alexander asked a very right question.
Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
He/She accuses the minister, saying that the car tax harms all Estonian residents, particularly the poorer ones, while simultaneously refusing to implement a solidarity tax on banks that are earning hundreds of millions through the Eurozone's most expensive loans, and questions whose interests he/she is working for.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev stated that the state budget revenue primarily comes from taxes, and the motor vehicle tax will reduce car usage in cities and improve the living environment. He noted that the tax on older, cheaper cars will be lower due to affordability concerns. Simultaneously, the advance income tax for banks will be raised from 14% to 18% starting next year, which will provide additional revenue for the budget, totaling approximately 126 million euros.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called upon Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart to speak.
Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He says that the proposed car tax involves triple taxation (VAT, excise duty, and a separate car tax), and asks why the tax collected from vehicle owners couldn't simply be a single, one-time additional bank tax.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev emphasizes that although taxes are not enjoyable, the state requires revenue to cover permanent expenditures and investments. Therefore, tax amendments are being introduced which will increase defense spending, raise the motor vehicle tax, and, starting from 2025, expand the advance income tax for banks to 14%, all in order to ensure state services and a sustainable budget.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi asks Vadim Belobrovtsev to come forward.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Belobrovtsev accuses the minister, stating that the opposition is not offering an alternative to the car tax, claims the Centre Party’s bank tax is a more profitable option, and reminds us that, with the benefit of hindsight, existing taxes could have been raised to finance national defense. He further notes that VAT, income tax, and excise duties have already been raised or are planned to be raised, concluding by asking whether he or the prime minister is mistaken.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
The Minister of Finance notes that the revenue generated by tax changes aimed at increasing defense spending allows defense expenditures this year to be maintained at around 3% of GDP (3.2%). Furthermore, the increase in banks' advance income tax, income tax on dividends, VAT, excise duties, and the motor vehicle tax, along with additional dividends, will bring in supplementary revenue. Therefore, everyone needs to understand that a small contribution to the country's defense is necessary.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Andrei Korobeinik to speak.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Andrei Korobeinik said that the government's economic policy has reduced Estonia's gross domestic product by about 3%, the new tax does not cover this, and he doubts the amount of additional funds promised to the budget through the special agreement being established with the banks, while emphasizing that a car is necessary for life for rural residents.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech emphasizes that the time has truly come.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He respectfully addresses the manager and asks if there is trouble again.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi announced that the time for the main address was up, that there was one minute remaining for questions, and that they were already 20 seconds over the limit, before welcoming the colleague.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Andrei Korobeinik argues that the bill increases the inequality between rural and urban residents.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev explained that the motor vehicle tax aims to reduce the number of cars in the city and improve the environment. He noted that the tax accounts for 5–15% of a vehicle's total costs, and while not factoring in mileage might disproportionately affect urban residents, he maintained that the measure is reasonable and fair, adding that alternatives are available within the city.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi notes that all previous questioners have been good colleagues, and now turns to colleague Signe Kivi with a request.
Signe Kivi
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Signe Kivi expresses concern over the Ministry of Culture's proposal regarding tax exemptions for vintage and racing vehicles. She points out the unequal treatment and the taxation issue stemming from the long duration of restoration work, and asks what the appropriate response should be, first to the Ministry and then to the letter's sender.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev emphasized that the motor vehicle tax must be assessed fairly, and that owners of older vehicles and restorers of hobby cars must not be treated unequally. He added that if the state compensates for a tax concession, this compensation must only apply to cars that are publicly accessible as items of cultural value.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi greets colleague Helir-Valdor Seeder and asks for something.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Helir-Valdor Seeder stated that the car tax must be viewed within the context of tax policy, noting that it is ill-timed and misplaced, and that Isamaa does not support it. He also questioned whether it constitutes retroactive taxation and proposed that the tax should only apply to vehicles registered after the bill takes effect.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that the motor vehicle tax is not retroactive taxation, and there is a six-month transition period for the law to enter into force, which gives people and businesses time to adapt. Furthermore, the registration fee is higher, the annual tax is lower, and people have the opportunity to choose a more economical car.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi greets Anti Allast and makes a request.
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Anti Allas emphasizes that the main problems are the excessive size of the registration fee and the potential overestimation of the revenue collected from it. He asks whether the projected 126 million euros will truly materialize, considering that fewer cars are being bought and VAT revenue is consequently decreasing, which could, overall, affect the structure of the economy.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that the revenue figure for the new tax is an estimate, and the final numbers will only become clear later, as the forecasts are based on the analysts' best knowledge, and the impact depends on car purchase and registration behavior.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi thanks the Minister, commends the discussion for being substantial, and encourages a broader consideration of the themes of the original question, repeating previously stated points if necessary, while emphasizing the meaningful questions posed by his colleagues.
Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
The speaker believes the plan could amount to triple taxation—a VAT hike, an excise duty increase, and a new car tax—which will increase costs for vehicle owners and bring extra money into the budget, even as investments in the road network are being cut.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that although significant cuts were made to road investments by previous governments, the 2024 budget and budget strategy have restored these investments. He added that while additional resources are still required at the current level, these must be covered solely by tax revenues, and the Riigikogu’s decision regarding the use of the motor vehicle tax will determine whether, and how many, additional road investments can be allocated.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi addresses his colleague Helir-Valdor Seeder and asks him for something.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Helir-Valdor Seeder argues that the impact of the car tax varies greatly regionally: in the city, a car might be needed less and public transport is free, but in the countryside, a car is essential. Furthermore, the tax doesn't take into account the usage period, which is why he is inviting the minister to visit and asking whether seasonal motor vehicles (ATVs, combine harvesters) should have to pay for the entire year or not.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev explained that the motor vehicle tax is intended to reduce motorization rates in urban areas and exempt agricultural machinery from taxation. Furthermore, symbolic annual fees apply to L- and T-category vehicles and ATVs (for example, 30 euros for 51–125 cm³ and 90 euros for 1500 cm³), which are dependent on engine displacement. However, if the vehicle's weight exceeds 1000 kg, it will not be subject to taxation.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi politely addresses his colleague Vadim Belobrovtsev and asks for something.
Vadim Belobrovtsev
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Vadim Belobrovtsev raised the issue that the Estonian Association of Large Families had complained that large families were not included in the drafting of the bill. He emphasized the necessity of cars and requested that the impact of the motor vehicle tax on their livelihood be analyzed before the finalization of the bill. He then asked whether such an analysis has been completed or is planned, and whether an exemption for large families is being considered.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev explained that the age component of the draft motor vehicle tax considers the individual's or family's ability to pay. The so-called tax is lower for families with smaller incomes and higher for larger and more polluting vehicles, but the objective is neither to force anyone to give up their car nor to restrict movement.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi greets his colleague Andres Metsoja and asks him for something.
Andres Metsoja
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
According to Andres Metsoja, the Estonian people scorn the car tax as a taxation of lifestyle, which disproportionately burdens rural areas—the state channels money into cities, roads and the school network are often worse there, and this causes significant emotional damage.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev confirmed that the objective is not to harm the well-being of people in rural areas. He stressed the necessity of ensuring electricity access for everyone and explained that the taxation of motor vehicles is based on CO2 emissions and vehicle size, adding that people retain the right to choose which mode of transport they wish to use.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi greets his colleague Mart Maastik and makes a request.
Mart Maastik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Mart Maastik stressed that he does not want to disadvantage rural residents and that electricity must be guaranteed for everyone, regardless of where they live, because the power outages experienced this winter are not a normal occurrence. He also noted that, simultaneously, taxation is linked to a car's CO2 emissions and weight, and people are free to choose their own mode of transport.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that the goal of the motor vehicle tax is to balance environmental objectives with people’s ability to pay, by offering a discount to older people and lower-income households, and by taking into account both urban and rural areas so that no one has to give up their car, while also securing additional funds for the state budget for necessary investments.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi addresses Riina Solman and asks for something.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman criticized the Minister of Social Protection’s proposal for a car tax exemption for disabled people, noting that the exemption applies to only 150 modified vehicles and that 99% of disabled individuals would be excluded. She also questioned why the adoption of the law is being rushed and why problems are being delegated to the care of other ministries, when what is needed is proper legislative drafting and comprehensive relief measures.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev stated that in order to enhance the mobility of people with disabilities, the focus must be placed on their specific living arrangement needs, directing support programs to everyone regardless of car ownership, utilizing specialized transport, taxis, and public transport, and increasing benefits for children with profound disabilities and working-age individuals, thereby ensuring their ability to move.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi welcomes Priit Sibul and presents a request.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul stresses that for larger families, using bigger cars is both inevitable and necessary, and raising the car tax without any exceptions will disproportionately harm these households.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev stated that larger families incur greater expenses, and the state provides them with increased support. However, every family decides for themselves whether they travel by car or utilize other modes of transport.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi turns to his colleague Jaak Aab and asks him for something.
AI Summary
Jaak Aab emphasized that although justifications regarding the environment and curbing car dependency have been voiced, road maintenance, road construction, and public transport are underfunded in the state budget. He therefore hopes that the new tax will slightly strengthen this area of the budget. He added that the registration tax component is seriously akin to an asset tax—which is better than raising the VAT, the burden of which falls on lower-income people.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
The state budget is underfunded, resulting in a deficit of 1.2 billion, which necessitates increased borrowing and, eventually, the implementation of tax changes, including the motor vehicle tax set to take effect in 2025. This is intended to cover defense expenditures, boost investments in public transport and roads, and make the funding more sustainable.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi greets his colleague Mart Maastik and asks for something.
Mart Maastik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Mart Maastik notes that there are about a thousand classic cars in Estonia, which contribute to the state budget through the purchase of spare parts and maintenance. Their usage time is very short, but the draft bill does not encourage these collector's items to remain in Estonia.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that these vehicles, classified as museum exhibits, are likely older than 20 years, and their motor vehicle tax is 50 euros per year, which is marginal. Furthermore, the Ministry of Culture is developing a support scheme under which publicly displayed museum vehicles will receive tax compensation.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi turns to Riina Solman and asks for something.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman emphasizes that the constitution obligates the state to care for people with disabilities and large families, criticizes the minister's awkward wording, and warns that cuts to tax benefits could endanger Estonia's birth rate.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanks.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev confirmed that every child is important and that he values all forms of families equally, and does not disparage anyone, including large families.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi asks the audience to quiet down.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Võrklaev stated that he would not support having words put in his mouth, and emphasized that a reasonable aid package has been created for people with disabilities, which improves their mobility regardless of whether they own a car. He added that large families should receive additional state protection and support, which is already guaranteed by the existing family benefits.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi commended the courtesy, dignity, and substance of the debate, and asked them to maintain the high standard, offering a small remark to both parties before addressing Priit Sibul.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul criticized the draft legislation, arguing that it would force large families to own two vehicles. He added that taxing large vehicles is justified in the context of national defense, as these cars could be requisitioned by the state in the event of a conflict.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev stated that every family decides what kind of car they drive and whether they own one vehicle or several. Regarding vehicles critical for national defense, the Ministry of Defense has notified the owners, and there may be a corresponding note in the traffic register. However, those cars are mostly heavier than 3.5 tons, and the motor vehicle tax does not apply to them, as the tax only affects M and N category vehicles weighing up to 3,500 kilograms.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi addresses his colleague Anti Allas and asks him for something.
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Anti Allas pointed out that the experience of Ukraine shows how crucial it is in an emergency to utilize vehicles that are operational, even if only for a couple of days. He also expressed concern that starting to tax cars with suspended registration might be unfair, as these vehicles could provide essential, life-saving assistance.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev explains that the goal of the broad-based motor vehicle tax is simplicity and equal contributions. Furthermore, to alleviate the issue of scrap vehicles, a 50-euro tax is stipulated for vehicles over 20 years old. This measure encourages owners to either fix up their car or properly dispose of it, thereby protecting the environment.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi politely addressed his colleague Jaanus Karilaid and asked him to take the floor.
Jaanus Karilaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
The report notes that, regarding point 12, the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has submitted a dissenting opinion opposing the car tax, and it is emphasized that, during the current economic downturn, the focus should be on improving the economic environment so that the economy can grow and tax revenue can increase.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that the economy will recover in 2025, and the timing of taxation must be set to cover defense and investment costs while simultaneously promoting entrepreneurship and environmentally friendly transport solutions via the motor vehicle tax and CO2 emission bands.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi addresses his colleague Urmas Reinsalu and asks him for something.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu claims that the Ministry of Finance's policy has failed, highlighting high inflation, a drop in business confidence, and the economy shrinking according to the Bank of Estonia's forecast. He then asks what a different solution would be, and whether the government would abandon the car tax and withdraw the corresponding bill.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that the current government is investing 1.9 billion euros into the Estonian economy, implementing tax changes, and increasing defense spending in order to emerge stronger from the crisis, improve the budgetary position, accumulate a buffer for crises, and remain an independent state, considering that the economic decline stems primarily from Russia's aggression in Ukraine and the previous fiscal policy was a failure.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech began with a warm greeting to colleague Jaanus Karilaid.
Jaanus Karilaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Jaanus Karilaid is accusing the Reform Party of a complete failure in tax policy. He claims that, setting aside the issue of hidden taxes, the income tax cut—from 26% down to 20%—has resulted in an economic downturn over the last two years, draining state funds needed for healthcare, social welfare, and roads. Furthermore, he argues they have absolutely no ideas or concrete measures to fix the situation.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
It was a brief thank you.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
The government increased defense spending and implemented tax changes, improving the budget position by approximately half a billion. It is investing 1.9 billion into Rail Baltic, roads, and the renovation of buildings so that people can have warm homes and lower energy bills, and it continues responsible fiscal management so that Estonia will be a country capable of managing independently in the future.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi greets his colleague Urmas Reinsalu and asks the second question.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu criticized the government, arguing that its economic policy has been characterized solely by massive tax hikes, lacks an inspiring vision for economic growth, and that the restructuring of state finances has created confusion, reduced competitiveness, and undermined people's livelihoods. He made these claims while citing the Bank of Estonia's forecasts and failing to get an answer to the question he had put forward.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi tells Urmas that it is time.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
The speech asks what the government considered to be the alternative to the car tax, and whether that alternative was discussed at all.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev said that although the government has stepped up its efforts during the difficult economic situation and allocated 1.9 billion euros for investments aimed at strengthening businesses and competitiveness, tax changes must be implemented to improve the state budget's position. This is because the poor state of the economy stems both from the war taking place in Ukraine and the broader European downturn, meaning additional revenues are needed to cover the deficit.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Kalle Grünthal to speak.
Kalle Grünthal
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kalle Grünthal asks what the proportion of CO2 is in the Earth's atmosphere and what percentage reduction in the transport sector the draft legislation stipulates.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Information regarding the amount of CO2 in the Earth's atmosphere will be provided later, but according to the impact assessment, the expected reduction in emissions by 2030 is approximately 88 kilotons of CO2 equivalent.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi addresses Valdo Randpere and makes a request.
Valdo Randpere
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Valdo Randpere is asking if those former ministers, Urmas Reinsalu and Jaanus Karilaid—now members of the Isamaa party—sound credible when they, while serving in government, allowed approximately 235 million euros in tax revenue to drift toward Latvia, only to now protest the proposed car tax. Is he perhaps mistaken in his recollection?
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
He emphasizes that the time is now and calls for action.
Valdo Randpere
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He is asking if it was the other number or 235 million.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi thanks the audience.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
We recall those crazy excise duty hikes that caused the state budget to lose hundreds of millions in revenue, and which were rammed through the Riigikogu during the second reading with loud slogans and without any debate or amendments. The result of this is that the motor vehicle tax now brings in about 236 million annually.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi called upon Kalle Grünthal to speak.
Kalle Grünthal
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kalle Grünthal accused Mart Võrklaev of lying about the percentage of CO2 in the Earth's atmosphere (0.039%). He also stressed the bill's objective of reducing CO2 emissions and the necessity of clearly understanding climate targets.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
He says it is time to wrap up now, and addresses his companion as "dear colleague."
Kalle Grünthal
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kalle Grünthal asks what percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere would be considered normal.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This talk is all thanks to Kalle.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev confirmed that CO2 reduction is their goal, provided an estimated overview of the impact of the draft bill or the motor vehicle tax being introduced in Estonia, and stated that he had not lied and that the question was not directly related to the draft bill.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi addresses his esteemed colleague Pärtel-Peeter Pere and asks.
Pärtel-Peeter Pere
AI Summary
Pärtel-Peeter Pere thanks everyone for the pleasant conversation, promises to help his colleague Kalle Grünthal in his time of need, and highlights that, based on data from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as of June, the CO2 level was 424 ppm. He adds that 450 ppm signifies roughly two degrees of warming, and CO2 doesn't dissipate anywhere. He concludes by asking the minister a personal question about what car he drives.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
He thanked them for the help, noting that he drives a company Mercedes-Benz and is a complete novice when it comes to cars, which is why he cannot comment on the details of that vehicle.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Speaker Toomas Kivimägi addresses Valdo Randpere and asks for the second question.
Valdo Randpere
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Valdo Randpere said that even though he doesn't like the car tax, he is prepared to support it due to the state's financial needs, and he suggested renaming the tax the "national defense tax" to reduce opposition and continue collecting revenue from vehicles.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This is a short, friendly greeting that acknowledges the time and the colleague.
Valdo Randpere
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Valdo Randpere notes that this name somehow causes a great deal of excitement among people.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
He expresses his thanks.
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
Finance Minister Mart Võrklaev explains the need for the motor vehicle tax, citing both funding requirements and environmental considerations. He stresses that the tax will help reduce the number of cars in urban areas and secure the financing of government services, while also calling for proposals and the careful establishment of a strict cost-benefit balance.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi politely addresses Mait Klaassen and asks for something.
Mait Klaassen
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mait Klaassen emphasizes that although the debate focuses on a car tax, it fundamentally has a strong environmental component, and according to the Green Tiger roadmap, passenger car emissions constitute 65% of the transport sector's emissions. Therefore, do you agree that this is actually an environmental tax?
Rahandusminister Mart Võrklaev
AI Summary
This motor vehicle tax has focused on the environment from the very beginning. The purpose of this tax is to reduce CO2 emissions, taking into account the vehicle's weight and age, so that the tax would be smaller for a car with lower CO2 emissions, and one that is lighter and newer. It also aims to reduce the number of cars in urban areas and encourage more sustainable vehicles, such as electric cars, which are exempt from fuel consumption charges and excise duties. Overall, this is a tax driven entirely by environmental objectives.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi thanks the Minister and the participants, announcing that we have now reached the long-awaited report from the leading committee, which will be presented by Jevgeni Ossinovski, a member of the Finance Committee.
Jevgeni Ossinovski
AI Summary
Jevgeni Ossinovski provided an overview of the Finance Committee's work to date on the draft bill, addressing the questions, responses, and discussion related to the coordination table, and making three procedural decisions: placing the draft bill on today's agenda, concluding the first reading, and appointing the representative of the lead committee. Furthermore, a deadline of ten working days was set for the submission of amendments.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi thanks the server and informs everyone that they now have the chance to ask questions to Andrei Korobeinik.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Andrei Korobeinik expressed disappointment that he did not get the chance to ask a question during the committee meeting and that the discussion has been lost. He stressed that questions must be asked before any procedural decisions are made.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi thanked the audience.
Jevgeni Ossinovski
AI Summary
Jevgeni Ossinovski said he could not attend the session due to family reasons, but emphasized that the shaping of political culture takes place jointly across the various bodies of the House. He noted that the first reading focused on general principles, after which the draft bill will be discussed comprehensively and questions will be answered.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Finally, we can also ask our good colleague Annely Akkermann, who has been waiting for so long.
Annely Akkermann
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Annely Akkermann noted that it is a fairly common practice to dedicate an hour and a half to questions, followed by procedural decisions, and only then discuss the substantive aspects of the draft legislation, adding that Mr. Korobeinik has also followed this practice previously.
Jevgeni Ossinovski
AI Summary
He said that it wasn't a question that required his answer, and he treated it as a mere remark.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Jüri Ratas thanks the presenter and says there are no questions, thank you very much.
Jevgeni Ossinovski
AI Summary
Jevgeni Ossinovski thanked.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Jüri Ratas announces the start of negotiations and invites Andrei Korobeinik, the representative of the Estonian Centre Party faction, to speak.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Andrei Korobeinik expresses deep disappointment regarding the processing of the draft bill, noting that questions could not be asked during the sitting before the vote, which consequently restricted the rights of the Riigikogu. He also criticizes the Reform Party government for the 3% GDP decline, while simultaneously emphasizing that the expected revenue from the draft bill is about 200 million per year. This revenue could have covered the bank tax twice over and allowed for the avoidance of the car tax and other tax hikes; he requests additional time.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Jüri Ratas poses a question to the listeners: how much is desired.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
He/She emphasizes that we must do as much as possible.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Jüri Ratas requests three minutes.
Andrei Korobeinik
Profiling Eesti Keskerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Andrei Korobeinik criticized the Reform Party government for being detrimental to rural areas, citing the bank tax bill, the closure of rural schools, the termination of free county public transport earlier this year, and the introduction of the car tax. He stated that these steps would force people to move from the countryside to the city, leaving villages deserted, and called on both the coalition and the opposition to jointly reject the bill.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Helir-Valdor Seeder, the representative of the Isamaa faction, was called to the Riigikogu podium.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
He noted that the speech would last eight minutes.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Jüri Ratas requests eight minutes.
Helir-Valdor Seeder
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Helir-Valdor Seeder argues that the car tax bill spearheaded by the Reform Party is completely unjust and poorly drafted. He states that due to insufficient impact analysis, the bill, which exacerbates regional inequality and urbanization, should be rejected during the first reading or, at minimum, not be enforced retroactively.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Jüri Ratas emphasized that it must be clarified which bill the faction wishes to reject—the motor vehicle tax bill or the bill amending the Electricity Market Act and other acts related to 351 SE. He also requested a proper statement and eight minutes of speaking time for Toomas Uibo.
Toomas Uibo
Profiling Eesti 200 fraktsioonAI Summary
Toomas Uibo stated that the motor vehicle tax bill initiated by the Government of the Republic must balance the needs of the state budget, environmental sustainability, and the objectives of the mobility reform, while simultaneously providing exemptions for people with disabilities and vehicles temporarily removed from the register, and reducing car-centricity.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Jüri Ratas asked Annely Akkermann, the representative of the Reform Party faction, whether she wanted additional time; she replied affirmatively and ultimately requested eight minutes.
Annely Akkermann
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Annely Akkermann emphasizes that the motor vehicle tax aims to reduce pollution and traffic congestion and make street space safer for people. However, the collection of taxes and the support structure must be managed using precise data and targeted support based on people's needs (such as large families, people with special needs, and those in sparsely populated areas), rather than through broad tax concessions.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
The address begins with an apology and thanks, and Siim Pohlak, representative of the EKRE faction, is invited to the Riigikogu rostrum to deliver his speech.
Siim Pohlak
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Siim Pohlak of EKRE declares the car tax unjust, criticizes the government and the Riigikogu (Parliament) for the sloppy handling of the procedure, and calls on the people to rise up, arguing that the car tax is not a solution and that the tax burden should be directed towards banks, not individuals, and that the draft bill must be rejected during the first reading.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Jüri Ratas urges calm action, emphasizing that the signature and date must be included, and reminds everyone that an incident occurred previously due to the wrong number.
Siim Pohlak
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Siim Pohlak confirms that everything is exactly as it should be for EKRE.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Jüri Ratas announced that negotiations had concluded, confirmed the leading committee's position to end the first reading of Bill 364, and mentioned the content of letters from three factions (Centre Party, Isamaa, EKRE): namely, to reject the first reading of Bill 364, regarding which he then called for a vote in favor of those proposals.
Aseesimees Jüri Ratas
AI Summary
Jüri Ratas announced that the first reading of Bill 364 has been concluded. The result was 27 votes in favor, 52 against, and there were no abstentions. The deadline for submitting amendments is February 28th at 17:15 (not January 28th), and the processing of the first item on the agenda has been completed.