By Plenary Sessions: Mart Helme

The speaker notes that the discussion is not on the topic of the budget; economic standpoints are not being presented.

The state budget is mentioned in connection with the finance minister's inability to answer substantive questions, but the speaker does not present their own positions on taxes, expenditures, or economic growth.

Strong support is expressed for the market economy, economic advancement, and freedom, coupled with criticism of the government for its neo-Stalinist regulatory approach. Emphasis is placed on the burden on entrepreneurs, raising questions regarding the competence required for providing environmental assessments and its subsequent accounting representation.

Economic perspectives are fiercely critical of the current tax policy, which is devastating agriculture and stifling entrepreneurship, consequently driving the country into its longest and deepest recession. Investments are demanded (for example, in storage facilities and equipment), and the economic growth forecasts issued by the government and the Bank of Estonia are dismissed as incompetent "rubbish." The government is also criticized for its failure to recognize the 30 million euro revenue generated by the sale of prison real estate as a substantial sum in the context of the state budget.

Economic perspectives are critical of government spending and fiscal discipline, particularly concerning the security tax and the costs associated with renovating new police facilities. They emphasize the need to avoid waste and criticize the rushed planning process, which could result in tens of millions of euros in additional costs. Furthermore, they are demanding clarity on exactly how many billions are being scraped together for defense.

Not enough data

Economic views are critical of the excise duty policy, demanding that fuel excises be earmarked for road construction and maintenance. Warnings are issued against raising alcohol excises, as this damages public safety and encourages the black market. Furthermore, astonishment is expressed regarding Russia's low level of foreign debt and its positive foreign trade balance.

Economic perspectives are tied to population policy, highlighting the links between employment, migration, and national budget planning. The speaker downplays the costs of establishing the commission, calling it "peanuts" compared to the price of failing to resolve the demographic crisis. He stresses that state budget allocations are essential for supporting families and guiding migration.