Session Profile: Maria Jufereva-Skuratovski
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-02-18
Political Position
The political focus is on the strong opposition to the Center Party's proposed temporary solidarity tax bill, which is deemed populist and unsubstantiated by analysis. Emphasis is placed on the importance of a stable tax environment and the permanence of the current banking tax (advance income tax), thereby defending the government's economic policy. The position is strongly policy- and results-based, advocating for the existing tax system as an already functioning solution. The Reform Party does not support the submitted bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates in-depth knowledge regarding the taxation of the banking sector and state budget revenues, presenting specific figures and statistics. Technical terms such as "advance income tax" are utilized, and precise tax rates (18%, 22%) and projected revenues (641 million in additional income) are cited. The expertise also includes an international comparison, analyzing the negative consequences of the Lithuanian bank tax, such as the outflow of fintech companies.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical and critical, focusing on logical arguments and statistical data, particularly concerning tax revenue. The opposition's draft bill is branded as a populist and "Robin Hood-esque" idea, which is described as brief and superficial. Contrasting examples are employed (Estonia's stability versus Lithuania's negative consequences), and warnings are issued about long-term risks, all while maintaining a formal tone.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the plenary session debate, posing questions to the rapporteur and responding to the opposition's criticisms. Noted were the request for additional time and direct interaction with colleagues present in the chamber, criticizing their lack of interest in the discussion. This pattern of activity suggests a role as a defender of government policy within the parliamentary chamber.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the Centre Party, whose draft bill is being called populist, lacking in analysis, and short-sighted. The criticism is political and motivation-based, arguing that the bill was created as a simple and appealing, yet ultimately harmful, idea aimed at taking money from the rich. Furthermore, the opposition is criticized for its attendance patterns in the chamber and its apparent lack of interest in the debate.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The discussion centers on Estonia's national tax policy and economic environment, highlighting local banks such as LHV, Coop Pank, and Bigbank. A significant portion involves international comparison, using Lithuania as an example to illustrate negative consequences (the outflow of fintech companies, the disappearance of loan products). Examples of positive investments include Ericsson's operations and the construction of a magnet factory in Narva by Canadian investors.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It favors a stable and predictable tax environment, opposing temporary taxes that send a negative signal to the business sector. It supports market competition, arguing that a bank tax would curb the growth potential of local banks, leading to higher loan interest rates and lower interest rates on deposits. Furthermore, it defends the current income tax system for banking as a permanent solution that covers national defense expenditures.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is on opposing the draft resolution, proposed by the Centre Party, to introduce a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector. The speaker is acting as a staunch opponent of the bill, highlighting its lack of proper analysis and the potential damage it could inflict on the economy, while defending the permanent tax solutions already implemented by the government.
3 Speeches Analyzed