Session Profile: Kalle Grünthal
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
2024-01-10
Political Position
The political position centers on strong opposition to the European Union's excessive influence over national tax policy, particularly regarding VAT rates, stressing the necessity of retaining independent decision-making authority. Intense criticism is also directed at the organization of work within the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) and the disregard for internal rules during the rapid processing of draft legislation. The focus is thus placed equally on political sovereignty and the integrity of parliamentary work procedures.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the legislative procedure by inquiring about the reasons for disregarding the rules of procedure and the speed of the proceedings (17 bills per hour). Furthermore, they are familiar with the context surrounding the establishment of European Union directives and member states' VAT rates, thereby calling into question the promises made upon accession.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is interrogative and challenging, frequently employing rhetorical questions to underscore the ambiguity surrounding national sovereignty and EU obligations. The tone remains formal (addressing the respected Chair of the session and the Rapporteur), yet the substance is combative, focusing on exposing logical inconsistencies and procedural flaws.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was active during the plenary session, posing questions regarding both substantive bills (VAT) and the procedural organization of the session. All interventions occurred within a single day, which suggests focused participation in the ongoing debate and the raising of procedural issues.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed at the chairing of the session and the rapporteur, sharply criticizing the disregard for the rules of procedure and the fast-track processing of the draft legislation. They also object to the supremacy of European Union directives over national tax policy, citing the distortion of the context of the accession treaties. The criticism is primarily procedural and political.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Insufficient data. The focus is on national sovereignty and international (EU) obligations.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives emphasize the importance of national fiscal sovereignty, calling into question the mandatory compliance with VAT rates set by the European Union. An independent right to levy taxes is preferred.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed at procedural scrutiny, criticizing the rushed handling of bills (including 17 drafts) and the violation of the rules of procedure. Substantively, the priority is tax policy, especially draft legislation concerning VAT rates, regarding which they generally take an opposing stance.
3 Speeches Analyzed