Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann
Second Reading of the Motor Vehicle Tax Bill (364 UA)
2024-07-29
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The speaker strongly advocates for the introduction of the motor vehicle tax starting in early 2025, justifying this with the need to bolster the state's revenue base and meet environmental objectives. He emphasizes that Estonia must shift towards the Nordic level of taxation in order to guarantee the desired public services and national defense. The speaker consistently defends the government’s tax policy, arguing that the state has been spending more than it has collected for years.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound expertise in tax law, budgetary management, and social policy issues. Utilizes precise figures and statistics, citing specific amounts, percentage rates, and comparisons with other nations. Exhibits a thorough understanding of legislative processes, the functioning of committees, and European Union legal acts.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Employs a formal and explanatory style, relying on facts and numerical data. Provides detailed and technical answers to questions, using specific examples and references to legislation. Maintains a calm and professional tone even when faced with critical questions, occasionally acknowledging the limits of knowledge ("I cannot say").
38 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Actively participates in the work of the Finance Committee, citing three extraordinary sessions and a joint session held with the Social Affairs Committee. Mentions cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Social Affairs, as well as communication with organizations representing people with disabilities. Demonstrates regular monitoring and analysis of legislative processes.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Sharply criticizes the amendments proposed by the opposition factions (EKRE, Center Party, Isamaa), labeling them as obstructionist and technically deficient. Accuses the opposition of submitting 374 amendments, many of which are, in their assessment, technically flawed or simply pointless. Defends the committee's decision to bundle the amendments together, citing the positions taken by the Supreme Court.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Emphasizes cooperation with various ministries and stakeholders, especially organizations representing people with disabilities. It mentions constructive dialogue regarding the president's remarks and a readiness to amend the draft bill. It indicates openness to involving experts and hearing different viewpoints within the committees.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It refers to specific regions like Saarde municipality, Lääneranna, Järva-Jaani, and Saaremaa, demonstrating an awareness of the problems faced by sparsely populated areas. It emphasizes that the speaker lives both in the countryside and in the city, understanding the needs of these different regions. It also mentions the role of the local government in arranging school transportation.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
He strongly supports tax hikes, arguing that Estonia’s tax burden (currently 34–35% of GDP) needs to shift toward the Nordic level (above 40%). He defends the implementation of property taxes and stresses the necessity of a state revenue base to fund national defense and social services. He asserts that the Estonian tax system is the most competitive in the world due to its uniformity.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses heavily on improving support for people with disabilities, detailing the increase in benefits for various target groups and the improved availability of necessary aids. It stresses the importance of needs-based support and the necessity of a personalized approach. Furthermore, it defends the decision to replace tax concessions with targeted benefits.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
He/She is chairing the second reading of the Motor Vehicle Tax Act, focusing specifically on incorporating the President's observations and improving the circumstances of people with disabilities. A detailed explanation is provided regarding the legislative process, the handling of proposed amendments, and the committee's decisions. The necessity of the law is emphasized for both securing the state's revenue base and achieving environmental objectives.
38 Speeches Analyzed