Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
Draft Security Tax Act (512 SE) – First Reading
2024-10-16
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The politician expresses strong opposition to the draft Security Tax Law (512 SE), criticizing the divergence between its name and its actual intended purpose. It is emphasized that the draft is opaque and harms the engine of the economy: small businesses. The political framework is aimed at criticizing the lack of genuine effectiveness and transparency in the policy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of tax optimization methods used by large multinational companies, citing Ireland as an example. They are also familiar with the financial details of the draft bill (the alleged 1.6 billion) and the actual portion of that sum allocated to the defense sector. Reference is also made to the discussions held during the committee meetings.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is skeptical and combative, repeatedly employing rhetorical questions to cast doubt on the bill's objectives and transparency. An ironic analogy is drawn with the "welfare tax" to highlight the lack of specific earmarking for the funds. The arguments presented are strongly logical, focusing on factual data concerning the distribution of funds and the overall economic impact.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the Riigikogu sessions and refers to previous discussions held during committee meetings, where the topics are thoroughly addressed. This pattern of activity demonstrates active involvement in the legislative process by asking questions of the presenters.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the proponents of the draft bill and the government, who are being criticized for a lack of transparency, the absence of an impact assessment, and for labeling critics ("nagging," "stupid"). The criticism is aimed at both the substance of the policy and procedural flaws, particularly concerning the actual intended purpose of the funds.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national level, addressing the broad-based tax legislation and its impact on the Estonian economic engine. The international context is mentioned only as an example of tax optimization (Ireland), not as a regional focus.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The politician strongly defends small businesses, which are considered the engine of the economy and are facing bankruptcy because of the new tax. The attitude towards large corporations is critical, as they optimize their taxes and pay only a pittance, even while publicly supporting the tax. A thorough impact analysis is being demanded before any new taxes are implemented.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In the social sector, concerns are being highlighted regarding the neglect of "people's well-being," as a significant portion of the security tax revenue is actually allocated neither to security nor to the welfare of the people. This points to a broader concern regarding the balance between citizen welfare and state priorities.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is opposing the draft Security Tax Law (512 SE) and demanding transparency regarding it. The speaker is a strong opponent of the bill, demanding the existence of an impact analysis and criticizing the actual intended purpose of the funds.
2 Speeches Analyzed