Agenda Profile: Aivar Kokk
Draft law amending the Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel and Electricity Excise Tax Act and other laws (510 SE) – first reading
2024-10-15
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The commentator strongly rejects the increase in excise taxes, asserting that it impoverishes people and harms the economy. They strongly support lowering taxes, pointing to the successful experience in 2020 when excise duties were cut and the economy expanded. They criticize the government's policy, which, in their view, is killing business and damaging Estonia's competitiveness.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of the tax system and economic policy, utilizing specific figures (1.7 euros per litre of petrol in 2028) and referencing the RES (State Budget Strategy). Exhibits expert knowledge in the field of transport and road construction, mentioning the European Union's obligations regarding the construction of 2+2 roads from Tartu and Pärnu to Tallinn by 2030.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Adopts a confrontational and emotional approach, accusing the minister of personal gain ("you bought a massive amount of canned goods before these taxes were implemented"). It combines fact-based arguments with rhetorical questions and employs irony and direct accusations aimed at the government.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches are being held during the parliamentary session for the first reading of the Excise Act. The speaker requests additional time ("Three minutes, please"), which demonstrates active participation in the debate and a desire to argue their points thoroughly.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Takes a sharply critical stance toward the Reform Party and the Social Democrats, accusing them of decoupling excise revenue from road construction in 2014. Expresses strong opposition to the current government and its tax policy, proposing that the draft bill be rejected during the first reading.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Speaking on behalf of the Isamaa Party, they are making a collective proposal to reject the draft bill. Direct cooperation with other parties is not mentioned; rather, the focus is placed on their own party's positions and past achievements while they were in power.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Emphasizes problems in regional development, arguing that the economy is concentrating around Tallinn while fading away elsewhere. It mentions specific regions—the areas of Tartu, Pärnu, and Narva—and their road links. It also highlights the impact of cross-border trade with Latvia and Lithuania.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
He strongly supports lowering taxes to stimulate economic growth, citing the successful experience of 2020. He argues that high excise duties damage business and exports, especially in the transport and logistics sector. He criticizes the government’s policy, which he believes is "literally killing off entrepreneurship."
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
It focuses on opposition to the excise duty act, proposing the rejection of the draft bill during the first reading. It criticizes the legislative process, arguing that no lessons are learned from past mistakes. It emphasizes the necessity of fulfilling European Union obligations concerning road construction.
7 Speeches Analyzed