Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann
Reconsideration of the Motor Vehicle Tax Act (364 UA) left unpromulgated by the President of the Republic
2024-07-15
15th Riigikogu, Extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The speaker strongly supports the implementation of the motor vehicle tax, emphasizing its necessity for funding state operations and addressing environmental considerations. He takes a pragmatic approach toward the president's constitutional objections, acknowledging their validity and the need to amend the law. The speaker demonstrates moderate flexibility, preferring to address the issue of equal treatment for disabled people through social benefits rather than tax exemptions.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound knowledge of tax policy, budget management, and legal procedures. He/She provides precise references to constitutional articles, explains in detail the substance of committee meetings, and quotes the positions held by the representative of the Presidential Office. His/Her grasp of activity-based budgeting and the technical aspects of the tax system is particularly strong.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker employs a formally informative style of communication, relying on facts and detailed explanations. Their approach is conciliatory and analytical, strictly avoiding emotional assessments. They structure their presentation logically, utilizing numerical references and chronological sequencing, and openly acknowledge the boundaries of their expertise regarding specific questions.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participated in two extraordinary sessions of the Finance Committee (on July 1 and 8), directing the procedural process. He/She met with representatives from various ministries and the President's Office, coordinating the subsequent handling of the legislation. His/Her work is intensively focused on the processing of a specific draft bill.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker moderately criticizes the opposition’s obstructionist tactics, referencing 831 amendments which he/she deems devoid of substance ("in increments of 1 euro and 0.01%"). He/She clearly distinguishes substantive proposals from obstruction, but maintains a diplomatic tone. The criticism is presented on procedural grounds, not personally.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasizes consensual decision-making within the Finance Committee and active cooperation with various ministries. He/She specifically mentions working together with the Ministry of Social Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, and the Estonian Chamber of Disabled People. His/Her approach is constructive, focusing on seeking compromises and acknowledging the contributions of others when solving problems.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker mentions regional disparities in transport accessibility, comparing Tallinn’s well-organized public transportation system with other areas of Estonia. They refer to the differing circumstances faced by people living in rural areas, but do not delve deeply into specific regional issues or projects.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker supports tax collection to ensure the functioning of the state and cover external expenditures, stressing the multi-faceted justification for the motor vehicle tax. They advocate for activity-based budgeting and demonstrate an understanding of the economic impacts on various target groups. Their approach is pragmatic, balancing environmental and socio-economic considerations.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker primarily focuses on the equal treatment of people with disabilities, supporting their rights through the social benefits system. He/She mentions the risk of poverty faced by large families, but does not take a clear stance on the matter. His/Her approach to social issues is cautious and legalistic, concentrating on compliance with constitutional requirements.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker is managing the legislative process for the Motor Vehicle Tax Act within the Finance Committee, specifically focusing on addressing the constitutional objections raised by the President. He is responsible for setting procedural deadlines and coordinating the submission of amendments. His priority is ensuring the law becomes constitutionally compliant, while simultaneously retaining its core objective and the potential for it to take effect on January 1st.
14 Speeches Analyzed