Session Profile: Annely Akkermann
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting.
2024-03-13
Political Position
The speaker clearly takes a stand against lowering the VAT on foodstuffs and medicines, arguing that reducing the sales tax will not result in a genuine price decrease for the consumer. He emphasizes that prices are agreements negotiated between the buyer and the seller, and last year’s experience demonstrated that even without raising the VAT rate, prices still rose and sellers’ profit margins expanded.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the field of tax policy and VAT, referencing specific examples from other countries, such as Latvia’s experience with VAT on vegetables. Uses fact-based arguments regarding wholesale and retail trade profits and demonstrates an understanding of the impact of tax policy on the economy.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
It employs a factual and analytical approach, relying on concrete examples and data. The tone is calm and clarifying, steering clear of emotional language. The argumentation is logical and coherent, utilizing comparisons with other countries to support its position.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The participation is evident in the work of the Finance Committee, where VAT issues have been discussed repeatedly. Specific dates are mentioned—November 20 last year and March 4 this year—demonstrating regular involvement in the committee's work and the processing of draft legislation.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
It does not offer direct criticism towards specific individuals or political parties, but it is clearly opposed to the VAT reduction proposal put forward by the Estonian Conservative People's Party. The criticism is policy-focused rather than personal, concentrating on the substantive lack of justification for the proposal.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Demonstrates a readiness for cooperation within the committee's work, noting that the decision to place the bill on the agenda was reached by consensus. He/She acts as the representative of the lead committee, which points to the trust of colleagues and the capacity for collaboration in parliamentary duties.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There isn't enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports a stable tax policy and ensuring state revenue to fund public services. It emphasizes that taxes are collected to cover state expenditures, including the financing of roads, police, courts, education, and healthcare. It takes a skeptical view when assessing the economic impact of lowering the value-added tax (VAT).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on tax policy issues, particularly the regulation of Value Added Tax (VAT) concerning foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals. Serves as a representative of the leading committee and actively participates in the processing of draft legislation within the Finance Committee, demonstrating specialization in the field of fiscal policy.
4 Speeches Analyzed