Session Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-05-05
Political Position
The political stance is firmly pro-consumer protection and tax relief, advocating for a reduction in VAT on essential goods. The attitude toward the Competition Authority is skeptical, with suspicions that the agency may be following directives from those in power rather than defending the interests of consumers. The speaker frames their views through criticism of political policies and government actions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in competition law (directive, Competition Authority) and tax policy, particularly regarding the effect of VAT on consumer prices. They are well acquainted with the government’s previous arguments against tax reductions, citing Finance Minister Ligi and Prime Ministers Michal and Kallas. They emphasize the need for supervision to ensure that the tax cuts reach the consumer.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is skeptical and at times combative, employing irony and figurative expressions (e.g., "the lion and the lamb together on a green meadow") when describing the relationship between the Competition Authority and businesses. Sharp questions are posed, suggesting potential dishonesty or political bias on the part of the government and the authorities. The tone is critical and logical, focusing on the exposure of political motives.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
We only have data regarding one plenary session where the speaker posed two consecutive questions on the same topic. This indicates active participation in the discussion of a specific directive.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are government members (Michal, Ligi) and former Prime Minister Kallas, who are accused of treating entrepreneurs as criminals a priori. Criticism is also aimed at the potential political bias of the Competition Authority, suggesting it may be carrying out the "instructions of those in power." The opposition is intense and centers on challenging the political arguments and motives involved.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The information is insufficient. The speaker references Lauri Läänemets's statement and possible insider information, but direct cooperation is not described.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely on national issues, covering the remit of the Competition Authority, consumer protection, and nationwide tax policy. Regional or local focus is absent from the speeches.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly advocates for assisting consumers through tax policy, demanding a reduction in VAT on essential goods so that people have more disposable income. They are critical of the government's position that merchants would simply pocket the tax cut, emphasizing the need for oversight by the Competition Authority.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data. The discussions focus on economic and regulatory issues, and social issues are not addressed.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on analyzing the entry into force of the directive concerning the Competition Authority and its impact on consumer protection. An important legislative priority is also reintroducing the VAT reduction bills to the Riigikogu, provided the directive offers the necessary protective mechanisms to do so.
2 Speeches Analyzed