Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Lower the Value Added Tax on Foodstuffs and Medicines to 5 Percent" (272 OE)
2024-03-13
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political stance strongly advocates for lowering the value-added tax (VAT) on pharmaceuticals to ease the financial strain on senior citizens. The speaker is actively opposing the government's proposal to tax pensions at a significantly higher rate than currently, viewing this as a direct threat to the elderly's ability to afford essential, life-saving medications. The central focus remains on social welfare and quality of life, both of which are being jeopardized by the government's current fiscal policies.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the specific healthcare needs and medication consumption patterns of the elderly, differentiating the pharmaceutical requirements of younger and older individuals (citing blood pressure medications, for example). The dynamics of the pharmaceutical market and imports are also discussed, highlighting the risk that market contraction could lead to a complete halt in drug importation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is cautionary and concerned, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and potential negative consequences, such as people foregoing the purchase of necessary medications due to lack of funds. Both logical arguments (market shrinkage) and emotional appeal are utilized, citing a personal example regarding the specific medication needs of older people (blood pressure drugs versus Coldrex). The language is clear and direct, posing a question during the second address.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the government, particularly concerning the plan to tax pensions far more heavily than currently ("going after the pensions"). The criticism is based both on the policy itself and its projected consequences, highlighting the direct negative effect it will have on the financial stability and health of senior citizens.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely on the national level, dealing with VAT policy and its impact on elderly residents throughout Estonia. Specific regions, local projects, or international issues are not mentioned.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations support a targeted tax reduction (VAT on medicines) to protect consumers and ensure market stability, thereby preventing a halt in the import of pharmaceuticals. The speaker opposes higher taxation on pensions, arguing that it damages the purchasing power of the elderly and creates essential living problems for them.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social focus is on the well-being and health security of the elderly. The need to ensure the continuous availability of necessary medicines for older people is emphasized, warning that a lack of funds may force them to forego life-saving medications.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on supporting the VAT reduction bill (272 OE), with the primary goal being to improve the availability of medicines. The speaker emphasizes the vital importance of this legislative change for ensuring the social and health security of the older population.
2 Speeches Analyzed