Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value Added Tax Act (184 SE)
2024-01-10
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker represents the government's stance on value-added tax issues, endorsing the current fiscal policy and defending the fundamental principles of the coalition's tax strategy. It is stressed that the tax burden must remain within the 33–34% range of GDP, excluding the national defense levy. The speaker clearly adopts a defensive position concerning the government's decisions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The text demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of tax policy and European Union directives. It references specific VAT directives and tax exemptions (ranging between 0% and 4%), and utilizes precise figures regarding the overall tax burden (33.8% of GDP). It indicates a strong grasp of both domestic tax policy and European regulations.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Employs factual and defensive rhetoric, rejecting accusations (e.g., "I must apparently reject the accusation of lying"). Arguments are substantiated using specific data and legal grounds. The style is formal and direct, focusing on the presentation of technical facts.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
He/She actively participates in the discussions held in the Finance Committee and the plenary assembly. He/She refers to the regular committee sessions and the issues stemming from the Riigikogu's (Estonian Parliament's) overloaded schedule. He/She mentions that the sessions often continue until the morning, which demonstrates an intensive work schedule.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
He rejects the accusations made by Martin Helme and the forces he represents, particularly the accusation of lying. The opposition is not receiving support from the government for its proposed amendments to the Value-Added Tax Act. The criticism is factual rather than personal, focusing instead on differences in political positions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It emphasizes the coalition's unity on matters of tax policy and refers to the coalition's shared vision regarding the tax burden. It shows a willingness to clarify the government's positions, but does not demonstrate a readiness to compromise on the opposition's proposals.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Insufficient data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The policy supports a moderate tax burden, aiming to keep it within the 33–34% range of GDP, plus the inclusion of a national defense tax. It stresses that taxation must evolve over time to adapt to changing economic models and societal development. This demonstrates a pragmatic approach to tax policy, viewing changes as both normal and necessary.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
It focuses on issues related to the Value Added Tax Act and, more broadly, tax legislation. It functions more as a defender of the government's positions than as an initiator of new legislative proposals. It emphasizes the complexity of the legislative process and the overburdening of the Riigikogu's agenda.
3 Speeches Analyzed