Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu, "Submitting a proposal to the Republic's Government to lower the value-added tax on foodstuffs to 5 percent" (492 OE)
2024-11-07
15th Parliament, 4th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker strongly supports the proposal to cut the VAT on foodstuffs to 5%, stressing that this is necessary to alleviate significant difficulties people are facing in making ends meet. This political stance is clearly aimed at improving the public's standard of living and is primarily results-driven, utilizing this platform to attack political opponents. The second speaker focuses on the procedural incompetence of the governing parties (the Reform Party).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates awareness of political party ratings, referencing the rating of Eesti 200 (three point something). Economic or taxation expertise is not demonstrated; the arguments rely instead on general social necessity and political strategy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative, ironic, and highly personalized, blending political endorsement with outright attacks. Sarcasm and humor are employed (for example, mentioning the need for training and a map for the vice-chairman) to underscore the opponents' incompetence. One speech also features a personal comment regarding the presenter’s appearance ("well-fed").
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu session during the first reading of the VAT bill, and references recent activity, such as having looked at political ratings the day before. The second speaker is paying close attention to the voting procedures and the proceedings in the chamber.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are Eesti 200 and the Reform Party. Eesti 200 faces a direct political threat concerning their low approval ratings, with the implication that failing to support the decision could prove fatal. The Reform Party is being attacked for procedural incompetence and disorganization, with specific criticism leveled at Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
No data available.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strictly national, centering on the general livelihood issues facing the Estonian people and the political procedures of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives strongly advocate for a tax cut (lowering the VAT on foodstuffs to 5%) as a direct measure to alleviate the public's cost-of-living struggles. This stance emphasizes social relief and consumer assistance.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is highlighted as the public's economic hardship ("very big problems"), which serves as the primary justification for the proposal to lower the VAT.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is centered on strong support for Proposal 492 OE, which calls for suggesting to the Government of the Republic that the Value Added Tax (VAT) on foodstuffs be lowered to 5%. The speaker is actively participating in the first reading of this draft legislation, serving either as its initiator or a strong proponent.
2 Speeches Analyzed