Session Profile: Annely Akkermann
15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session.
2025-01-22
Political Position
The speaker firmly supports the government’s tax policy, particularly the retention of the current rates for the motor vehicle tax and VAT. He takes a clear stand against the proposals put forth by Isamaa and EKRE, justifying this by citing the necessity of maintaining budget balance. His position is strongly policy-driven, prioritizing practical economic considerations over ideological arguments.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in tax and budgetary matters, utilizing precise figures (400 million euros, 6 billion in social transfers) and referencing OECD recommendations. He exhibits comprehensive knowledge of the components of the motor vehicle tax (the base component, the mass component, the emissions component) and relevant European Union legislation. His explanations are technically detailed and factually grounded.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker employs a calm, analytical tone, combining logical arguments with concrete examples. They are polite yet firm in their views, frequently relying on numerical evidence. The style is predominantly formal and technocratic, although more personal remarks occasionally surface ("I am sincere in all matters").
19 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the work of the Finance Committee, chairing discussions and presenting the committee's positions. He/She notes, as a recurring pattern, that the same topics have already been debated, referencing earlier sessions and decisions. His/Her activity focuses primarily on committee work and plenary sessions.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker criticized the low participation of EKRE members in the Finance Committee meetings, noting that "EKRE members very rarely attend the Finance Committee sessions." He/She rejected the tax policy proposals put forward by both Isamaa and EKRE, but did so using substantive arguments rather than resorting to personal attacks.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasized the committee's consensus decisions and invited opposition members to participate in the Finance Committee meetings. He demonstrated openness to debate, stating, "that could be an interesting discussion in the Finance Committee as well." His approach is generally cooperative, even while firmly defending his own positions.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data is available.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker strongly supports fiscal discipline and budget balance, emphasizing the necessity of collecting tax revenue to fund social transfers. He advocates for maintaining a broad tax base and is skeptical of tax breaks, arguing that they disproportionately benefit wealthier citizens. His economic views are pragmatic and market-based.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker emphasizes the crucial role of social transfers in supporting vulnerable groups—specifically the elderly, people with disabilities, and children—noting that 6 billion euros is allocated for these transfers. He argues that direct benefits are more effective than tax concessions when it comes to assisting low-income individuals. His approach is pragmatic and strongly supportive of the welfare state model.
19 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker is focusing on the deliberation of tax legislation, particularly matters related to the motor vehicle tax and value-added tax (VAT). He chairs the work of the Finance Committee during the review of these laws and proposes the rejection of certain draft bills. His legislative activity is aimed at preserving and refining the existing tax policy.
19 Speeches Analyzed