Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann

Draft law amending the Income Tax Act (597 SE) - First Reading

2025-05-21

Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.

Political Position
The speaker strongly supports improving the situation of pensioners and criticizes the impact of the Isamaa party's tax hump (or tax bracket distortion) on working retirees. They express clear support for the Reform Party's tax policy, particularly the changes implemented by Kaja Kallas's government, which resulted in pensioners having 100 million euros more disposable income. The overall stance is clearly socially oriented and pro-government.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Displays profound knowledge of tax policy and budgeting, utilizing specific figures such as a €200 million budget impact and a 24% VAT collection rate. Demonstrates a detailed grasp of changes to the Income Tax Act and their effect on various target groups, particularly pensioners. References expert opinions and discussions held by the Finance Committee.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Uses a factual and argumentative approach, relying on specific numbers and examples. The style is direct and slightly confrontational, especially when refuting "false claims." It combines technical details with emotional impact, emphasizing the hardships faced by pensioners and using repetition ("not a single cent – not a single cent!").

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
It refers to active participation in the work of the Finance Committee, mentioning the April 8 session and a meeting with a representative from the Ministry of Finance. This demonstrates regular monitoring of the legislative process and detailed preparation for discussions. The individual was appointed as the representative of the lead committee, highlighting an active role in legislative work.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Sharply criticizes Isamaa's tax policy, accusing them of worsening the situation for pensioners through the implementation of the tax hump. Categorically rejects Siim Pohlak's assertions, labeling them as "false claims." The opposition is clearly politically motivated and directed against specific political parties.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
He/She mentions the Finance Committee's consensus decisions regarding procedural matters, which demonstrates a readiness to cooperate on technical issues. At the same time, a clear disagreement was expressed concerning the rejection of the draft bill, where the majority position was supported. The collaborative style is pragmatic, yet principled on crucial issues.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Insufficient data

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports changes in tax policy aimed at increasing citizens' incomes, particularly for pensioners. It expresses concern over the budget deficit (€200 million), but trusts in the compensatory effect of consumption taxes. This demonstrates a pragmatic approach to economic policy, weighing both social impact and fiscal balance.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It strongly focuses on improving the social situation of pensioners and protecting the rights of working retirees. It emphasizes the necessity of ensuring adequate income for pensioners and criticizes policies that harm their economic standing. Social justice and the protection of the elderly are clear priorities.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Focuses on amendments to the Income Tax Act and their impact on pensioners. Supports legislative changes that improve the economic situation of pensioners, specifically referencing the reforms introduced by Kaja Kallas’s government. Demonstrates detailed knowledge of the legislative process and active participation in the work of the Finance Committee.

1 Speeches Analyzed