Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann

First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Income Tax Act (Bill 172 SE)

2024-01-17

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

Political Position
The speaker clearly takes a stand against the drastic reduction of corporate income tax, strongly emphasizing the state's fiscal responsibility. His position is categorical: the bill would "totally derail" the state budget and must therefore be rejected. This political stance is underpinned by a pragmatic approach to balancing the state budget.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a solid grasp of the Estonian income tax system, explaining precisely that corporate income is only taxed when dividends are paid out. They also show expert knowledge in the field of budgetary policy, specifically mentioning a "budget hole amounting to several billion" and its impact on the state's finances.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaking style is direct and critical, incorporating a touch of irony ("I don't know which economics textbook the waitress has read"). The speaker employs clear, concrete assertions and relies on facts, steering clear of emotional appeals. The tone is formal, yet simultaneously forceful and persuasive.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Based on limited data, active participation in the work of the Finance Committee and the discussion of draft legislation is evident. The speaker refers to the committee's decision and demonstrates regular engagement with the legislative process.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition's stated position is directed against the specific bill, not delivered through personal attacks. The criticism is clearly policy-based, focusing on the economic consequences of the draft legislation and the insufficient analysis provided. The possibility of compromise is not mentioned—the stance is a categorical rejection.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasizes the Finance Committee's collective decision to reject the bill, which demonstrates cooperation among the committee members. However, there is insufficient data available to assess the broader style of cooperation with other factions or colleagues.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The data are insufficient to assess the regional focus.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker supports a conservative approach to balancing the state budget and opposes drastic tax cuts without a clear funding plan. He demonstrates a good understanding of the specifics of the Estonian corporate income tax system and its impact on the economy. This stance advocates for fiscal responsibility.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The data is insufficient for evaluating standpoints on social issues.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker, acting as a member of the Finance Committee, clearly focuses on tax policy and budgetary issues. He is an opponent of the proposed bills, demanding thorough economic analysis and responsible legislation. The emphasis is placed on the quality and rigor of the legislative process.

2 Speeches Analyzed