Agenda Profile: Aivar Kokk
Draft law on establishing tax peace (607 SE) – first reading
2025-05-21
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The speaker is a strong proponent of tax reduction policies, claiming that the tax cuts implemented during the Isamaa government in 2020 propelled the economy to the top in Europe. They consistently support a business-friendly tax policy and sharply criticize the current government's tax hikes. They emphasize that establishing tax stability (maksurahu) is necessary to revitalize the economy and restore the confidence of entrepreneurs.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Shows deep knowledge in the field of tax policy and economics, using specific figures such as 17 million taken from pensioners and 76 million by 2027. Demonstrates expert knowledge of the state budget, the effects of VAT, and the energy market. Refers in detail to the development problems of the SKAIS systems and their costs.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
It employs an emotional and combative tone, blending it with concrete facts and figures. The rhetoric is direct and critical, repeatedly utilizing irony and rhetorical questions. It concludes with an optimistic appeal to support the bill, promising rapid economic results.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Confined during this period to one comprehensive speech delivered at the first reading of the tax peace bill. The structure of the speech demonstrates a systematic approach, starting with historical comparisons and concluding with concrete proposals. It references earlier questions posed to the Prime Minister, which indicates active participation in parliamentary debates.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Sharply criticizes the Reform Party and Eesti 200 for their tax policy, accusing them of damaging the economy. Emphasizes the contradictory nature of the Social Democrats, who, according to him/her, have "gone after children and pensioners." Claims that the Prime Minister fails to answer direct questions about future taxes, which demonstrates a lack of trust in the government.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasizes Isamaa's successful cooperation with the Centre Party (Keskerakond) and EKRE during the coronavirus crisis, citing it as a positive example. They call for support for the tax peace bill, offering collaboration to improve the economy. Furthermore, they show openness to working with coalition politicians, provided those politicians support their proposals.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It primarily focuses on national tax and economic matters. It cites the city of Tallinn as a positive example regarding the treatment of land tax. It references the tax policies of neighboring countries (Sweden, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania) for comparison, stressing that they have taken the opposite approach when it comes to tax reduction.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
They consistently support lowering taxes to stimulate economic growth, arguing that this will boost investment and increase business confidence. They criticize the expansion of the public sector, pointing out that 140,000 people are currently on the taxpayer payroll. They stress the necessity of reducing bureaucracy and supporting the private sector. They view tax hikes as the primary driver of current economic problems.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Criticizes the reduction of benefits for large families and the increased tax burden on pensioners. Expresses concern over rising unemployment, mentioning that 60,000 people are waiting in line. The speaker indirectly refers to immigration policy, stating that the government wishes to bring in labor from "countries where the faith is a little bit different." The necessity of supporting our own people before bringing in foreigners is emphasized.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on the draft law establishing tax peace, the goal of which is to cancel planned tax increases. Specific proposals are made: canceling the VAT increase, canceling the income tax increase, eliminating benefits for high earners, and putting an end to the farce surrounding corporate profit tax. The text emphasizes the speed and efficiency of lawmaking, referencing decisions made within a two-week period in 2020.
7 Speeches Analyzed