Session Profile: Annely Akkermann
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
2024-07-29
Political Position
The speaker is a strong proponent of implementing the motor vehicle tax starting in early 2025, basing this support on the necessity of boosting the state's revenue base and achieving environmental objectives. They stress that Estonia needs to align itself with Nordic tax levels to guarantee the provision of essential public services and national defense. Furthermore, the speaker defends the legislation against the president's criticism, asserting that the recent amendments actually make the law better.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates deep expertise in the fields of taxation, budgeting, and legislation. Utilizes precise figures and statistics (374 amendments, 9.1 million euros for disability support), and refers to specific laws and procedural regulations. Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of European Union law and comparative data from other countries.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Employs an official, detailed, and fact-based style, drawing heavily on figures and legal statutes. It answers questions with patient clarification, honestly acknowledging the limits of its knowledge ("I cannot say"). It refrains from emotional expression, concentrating on the explanation and justification of technical aspects.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Actively participates in the work of the Finance Committee, guiding the processing of the draft bill through several extraordinary sessions. Mentions cooperation with various ministries and interest groups (the Estonian Chamber of Disabled People). Demonstrates a systematic approach to the legislative process and thorough preparation for answering questions.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
It criticizes the obstructionist behavior of the opposition parties, specifically citing EKRE's submission of 200 amendments and technically flawed proposals. It refers to the Supreme Court's positions regarding obstruction and justifies the necessity of bundling the amendments to ensure the working capacity of the Riigikogu (Parliament). Nevertheless, an official tone is maintained when presenting the criticism.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It emphasizes cooperation with various committees (the Finance Committee and the Social Affairs Committee) and with interest groups. It mentions the involvement of the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Culture in the decision-making process. It demonstrates openness to hearing out those who submitted amendments, although ultimately, their proposals were not supported.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
He/She provides examples from specific regions such as Saarde municipality, Lääneranna, and Kilingi-Nõmme, emphasizing the unique characteristics of sparsely populated areas. The text mentions his/her electoral district and local municipalities, demonstrating an understanding of regional disparities in the accessibility of transport and services.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It supports tax hikes aimed at expanding the state's revenue base, contrasting Estonia's 34–35% tax-to-GDP ratio with the Nordic countries' figures exceeding 40%. It stresses the necessity of collecting more taxes to cover social, healthcare, and defense spending. It defends a uniform tax system with minimal exceptions, asserting that this is what makes the Estonian tax system competitive.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus is heavily placed on improving benefits for people with severe disabilities, detailing the increase in support for various target groups and the simplification of access to assistive devices. It emphasizes the critical nature of needs-based support delivered through the social system, rather than relying on automatic tax concessions. The text also mentions the status of large families within the European context.
38 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Oversees the handling of the motor vehicle tax bill through a complex process, addressing 374 amendments and presidential objections. Focuses on the technical quality of the legislation and legislative drafting standards. Emphasizes the law's compliance with the Constitution and European Union law, especially the principle of equal treatment.
38 Speeches Analyzed