Agenda Profile: Ester Karuse
Draft resolution "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government Regarding the Imposition of a Temporary Solidarity Tax on the Banking Sector" (535 OE) – First Reading
2025-02-18
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the solidarity tax on the banking sector, as it complicates the banks' situation and will lead to reduced availability of services. This position is primarily policy- and outcome-driven, focusing on the negative consequences (the closure of branches). The most significant problem is considered to be the disappearance of physical bank branches and the lack of face-to-face service.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the logistics of bank service accessibility and associated regional issues. They provide concrete examples of branch closures in various cities (Valga, Narva, Pärnu, Võru). Furthermore, they highlight the differences between digital and in-person services and the resulting impact on the local population.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is concerned, critical, and slightly emotional, describing the situation as "very sad." Rhetorical questions ("Don't you see...?") and irony (in the case of the Narva example) are used to highlight the seriousness of the situation. The focus is on real, human-oriented consequences.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed against those who introduced the bank tax, criticizing their failure to anticipate the negative impact the tax would have on the closure of bank branches and the availability of services. The criticism is focused on policy and consequences, not personal attacks.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Details regarding the cooperation style are scarce, but the speaker is inquiring about the discussion held in the commission, citing the desire to find regulatory solutions that would guarantee immediate banking services in county centers.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is very strong, centering on the loss of banking services in smaller towns and county seats. Specific emphasis is placed on the examples of Valga, Pärnu, Võru, and Narva, which are losing access to direct services.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views regarding new taxes (the bank tax) are divided, as these measures harm banks and the availability of services. Regulations are preferred that would require banks to maintain a minimum level of direct service in county centers, prioritizing service availability over commercial interests.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
When discussing social problems, emphasis is placed on the unequal access to services, especially for people who are excluded from direct banking because they lack digital literacy or the necessary equipment (smartphones, computers). This is framed as the problem of being unserved.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on opposing the draft bill for a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector. Furthermore, the speaker is interested in regulations that would establish state-mandated requirements for ensuring in-person banking services (branches) are available at least in county centers.
1 Speeches Analyzed