Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann
Draft law amending the Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel and Electricity Excise Tax Act and other laws (510 SE) - Third Reading
2024-12-11
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker strongly supports excise tax increases aimed at improving the state budget position and reducing the deficit. They advocate raising alcohol and tobacco excise taxes for health reasons, emphasizing the external costs of excessive alcohol consumption to society. A pragmatic approach is demonstrated by supporting the Finance Committee's decision to cancel the additional 5% increase in alcohol excise tax scheduled for July 2025, taking into account competition from the Latvian border.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound knowledge in the fields of excise policy and cultural funding. Uses precise figures and statistics, such as the increase in gambling tax from 12.6 million euros to 28 million, and the distribution percentages for cultural endowment allocations. Refers to the recommendations of Ministry of Finance experts regarding the collection of excise duty in small steps.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Uses a fact-based and analytical approach, relying on specific numbers and statistics. The tone is calm and explanatory, seeking to persuade through logical arguments. The speech is clearly structured, addressing various aspects sequentially, and concludes with a direct appeal to support the draft bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The scope is limited during the given period to the third reading of the Excise Duty Act in the Riigikogu. It indicates active participation in the Finance Committee and faction discussions. It demonstrates a systematic approach to the legislative process.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
No direct opposition or criticism is voiced. They neutrally reference the calculations made by colleague Anti Haugas concerning the decrease in alcohol prices. They demonstrate a rather cooperative attitude, acknowledging the differing viewpoints within the Finance Committee.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Emphasizes cooperation with the Finance Committee and the parliamentary groups in shaping excise policy. It refers to the joint decision to drop the additional increase in alcohol excise duty, demonstrating openness to compromise. Uses inclusive language when addressing colleagues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Focuses on national issues, but emphasizes the influence of the Latvian border on Estonian excise policy. It mentions the impact of cross-border trade on the collection of both excise and value-added tax (VAT), demonstrating an awareness of regional specificities.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports tax increases to balance the state budget and reduce the deficit. Demonstrates a pragmatic approach, acknowledging that lower taxes can sometimes result in greater budget revenue. Emphasizes the economic efficiency of excise policy and the maintenance of competitiveness.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
This addresses the excessive consumption of alcohol as a serious social problem, mentioning its links to domestic violence and child neglect. It highlights the negative externalities of alcohol consumption on society, including traffic accidents. It demonstrates a balanced approach between individual liberty and the common good.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on amendments to the Excise Duty Act, particularly concerning the regulation of alcohol, tobacco, and gambling taxes. It emphasizes improving the culture funding system through the reallocation of revenue derived from the gambling tax. This demonstrates a systematic approach to lawmaking that takes long-term impacts into account.
2 Speeches Analyzed