Agenda Profile: Jaanus Karilaid
Inquiry regarding tax changes (no. 657)
2024-11-18
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fourth Session, Plenary Session
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional, focusing on the government’s (Kristen Michal’s) inability to ensure economic competitiveness and deliver on promises of tax stability. They demand political certainty and concrete plans, criticizing the government's policies as the cause of rising prices and increasing service costs. The government’s internal tensions and the Social Democrats’ dominance within the coalition are highlighted.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates competence in fiscal and economic policy, citing the Chamber of Commerce's memorandum and demanding impact assessments for new taxes. Expertise in the energy sector is particularly highlighted, requiring specific forecasts for electricity prices in 2025 and 2026, and criticizing the failure to analyze the nuclear, wind, and solar energy portfolio. Comparative economic data involving Finland and Lithuania is also utilized.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical, accusatory, and demanding, highlighting the government's incompetence and dishonesty (specifically, the violation of the tax truce). Strong metaphors are employed, such as the economy's "crab walk" (indicating regression) and the "rooster step" taken in amending the constitution. The tone is urgent, demanding immediate answers and accusing the Prime Minister of undermining domestic peace.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
This pattern of activity is linked to legislative oversight, specifically by submitting a formal query to the government concerning tax policy and the economy. It is noted that this query was submitted a month ago, which points to systematic opposition activity.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are Prime Minister Kristen Michal and the ruling coalition, who are accused of destroying the economy’s competitiveness and being under the thumb of the Social Democrats. Criticism is aimed both at political instability (the lack of tax certainty) and at half-baked solutions (such as constitutional amendments). Former Prime Minister Kaja Kallas is blamed for denying the country’s previous economic success.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus remains on the national economy and energy policy, though strong international comparisons are drawn. Specific examples cited include Lithuania's economic growth, as well as Finland's lower energy costs for businesses and its investment programs.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic stance strongly favors tax stability and supporting entrepreneurship, while opposing new taxes and fees (such as the packaging tax and waste fee). They demand swift assistance for businesses and targeted investment programs to boost the economy, citing the period of Jüri Ratas’s government as a positive example.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, the amendment of the constitution concerning grey passport holders is being discussed. The speaker criticizes the government's proposed solution as "weak" and a "cock-step," demanding that a "full measure" be taken to utilize this historical opportunity.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing new taxes and levies (including the packaging tax and waste fee) planned by the Ministry of Climate and the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture. The focus also includes amending the constitution, supporting a complete and decisive resolution to the issue of non-citizens (grey passport holders).
5 Speeches Analyzed