Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
First reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value Added Tax Act (Bill 239 SE)
2024-01-10
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political focus is centered on the Riigikogu’s internal organization and procedures, criticizing the presiding officer’s actions regarding the length of the call to vote. The stance taken is primarily results-oriented, pointing to political maneuvering concerning the presence of the Centre Party. There is no substantive position on the draft amendment to the Value Added Tax Act.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
There is a lack of substantive expertise concerning the bill that was on the agenda (the Value Added Tax Act). Awareness is demonstrated regarding the internal rules and voting procedures of the parliament, but this knowledge is primarily used for making an ironic remark.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker adopts an interrogative and ironic style, using an emotional word ("desperately") to mock the political opponent (the Centre Party). The tone is rather informal and focuses on the specific situation currently unfolding in the chamber. There is also a direct address to the presiding officer.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
A single procedural intervention was observed during the Riigikogu session, timed prior to the vote. Information regarding regular occurrences or patterns is insufficient.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the Centre Party, who are being ridiculed for their absence from the vote and are being referred to as the party the presiding officer is waiting on. Furthermore, procedural criticism is being leveled against the actions of the presiding officer, who is allegedly dragging out the proceedings. The criticism is politically sharp, but lacks substantive policy content.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient information.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is exclusively at the national level, concentrating specifically on the procedures within the Riigikogu chamber and the presence of political parties.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient information
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient information.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
While the context was the first reading of the draft bill to amend the Value-Added Tax Act (Bill 239 SE), the speaker's intervention focused exclusively on the legislative procedure and the organization of the vote. The speaker acts more as a procedural critic than as a substantive initiator or supporter.
1 Speeches Analyzed