Session Profile: Annely Akkermann
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-12-04
Political Position
The speaker represents the Reform Party faction and serves as the chairman of the Finance Committee, focusing on fiscal policy issues. He strongly supports budget discipline and limiting the carry-over of balances, emphasizing the need for stricter control over government expenditures. Regarding the postponement of the alcohol excise duty increase, he takes a pragmatic position, balancing health considerations with the risks associated with border trade.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound expertise in the technical aspects of the state budget, possessing a thorough command of the rules and legislative requirements governing the budget process. Clearly explains the detailed procedure for handling amendments and the structure of the budget, utilizing specific figures and references to relevant legislation. Displays excellent familiarity with the budgetary matters concerning the Ministry of Education and Research and the Ministry of Finance.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
They employ a practical and technical approach, openly acknowledging issues with their speaking pace and adjusting it for the audience. The style is explanatory and pedagogical, aiming to clearly break down complex budgetary matters. They maintain a neutral tone, but show a degree of impatience when having to repeatedly explain the same things.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The text points to an intensive work schedule: the Finance Committee met on November 21st, December 2nd and 3rd, and also held online meetings with ministers. It notes the regular meetings with ministers and the significant workload carried by committee members despite the small size of the committee. It stresses the necessity of maintaining consistency when questioning ministers.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticizes the amendments proposed by the Isamaa faction as technically infeasible and non-compliant with legislative requirements. Expresses criticism towards the government, which fails to execute the will of the Riigikogu and uses allocated funds for purposes other than those planned. The stance is procedural rather than personal.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Emphasizes cooperation with ministries when drafting amendment proposals and shows openness to answering questions from ministers. Acknowledges the limited capacity of committee members to monitor everything and the need for assistance from colleagues. Demonstrates a constructive approach to problem-solving.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It specifically mentions the adult schools in Narva, Kohtla-Järve, Viljandi, Kuressaare, and Tartu within the context of the state assuming control. It addresses the technical issues local municipalities face regarding e-exams and the necessity of upgrading computer labs. The focus is more on the national level than on specific regions.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports conservative fiscal policy, emphasizing budget discipline and the need to limit the carryover of surpluses. On the issue of alcohol excise tax, it proceeds from pragmatic economic considerations, balancing the maintenance of tax revenues against the risks posed by cross-border trade. It advocates for the principle of subsidiarity in public finance and governance.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It addresses educational matters, particularly the financing of extracurricular education and the technical challenges associated with e-exams. On the issue of reducing alcohol consumption, it acknowledges the arguments put forth by public health advocates, but places them within a broader economic context. Social issues are primarily dealt with through political and economic aspects.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Focuses on amendments to the Budget Law and their technical processing, particularly the verification of compliance for the proposed amendments. It emphasizes the need for precise wording and references in legislative proposals. It is actively engaged in developing mechanisms to restrict the carry-over of budget balances.
15 Speeches Analyzed