Session Profile: Aivar Kokk
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-05-29
Political Position
The speaker expresses very strong opposition to Land Tax Act Bill 437, accusing the government and the Social Democrats of lying and stripping local governments of their rights. He strongly emphasizes the position of the Isamaa party that the bill must be rejected during the first reading. He supports the autonomy of local governments in setting taxes and is categorically opposed to the mandatory increase in land tax.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound knowledge in the field of local government, citing their long tenure on the council and experience as council chairman. They show detailed familiarity with the draft resolution, precisely quoting the text of the explanatory memorandum and the tax rates. Uses specific examples regarding the economic development of Jõgeva municipality and the consequences of the merger of local governments.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker employs highly emotional and confrontational rhetoric, repeatedly accusing the minister and officials of lying. They appeal strongly to facts and documents, demanding a precise reading of the draft legislation. While using personal experiences and concrete examples to support their position, they maintain an aggressive and accusatory tone.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Refers to active participation in the Finance Committee and the meetings of the Bank of Estonia Council. Mentions that they could not attend the committee meeting on the first day due to official duties. Demonstrates regular monitoring of legislative work and detailed analysis of draft legislation.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Sharp criticism is directed toward the Minister of Finance, the Social Democrats, the Reform Party, and Eesti 200, accusing them of lying and deceiving the populace. The speaker expresses clear opposition to the government’s tax policy and hopes that these parties will be out of local power within a year. Furthermore, officials are criticized for their perceived lack of trustworthiness.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
According to the data, a cooperative attitude is absent. The speaker makes no mention of any attempts at cooperation or seeking compromises. Conversely, [he/she] adopts a position of categorical opposition and demands the complete rejection of the draft bill. There is no indication of readiness for negotiations or the discussion of amendments.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses heavily on the issues facing local governments and provides a specific example from the Jõgeva rural municipality. It emphasizes the needs of local communities and criticizes the consequences of municipal mergers. Concern is expressed regarding smaller regions and the tax burden faced by local residents.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports the reduction of the tax burden and opposes raising the land tax. It emphasizes that money originates from entrepreneurship and taxpayers, not the state budget. It criticizes the economically unsuccessful decisions made by local governments and supports responsible budgetary policy. Concern is expressed regarding the increasing tax burden on businesses and residents.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Expresses concern regarding the situation of pensioners and people with special needs following the increase in land tax. It criticizes the situation where citizens are forced to provide services to the local municipality free of charge (cleaning sidewalks, mowing lawns). It stresses the need to protect ordinary people from the government's tax policies.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Focuses intensively on analyzing and opposing Draft Land Tax Act 437. Makes a concrete proposal to reject the bill during its first reading. References previous legislative work related to establishing the tax exemption for land under one's home in 2013. Demands the precise reading and understanding of legislative texts.
5 Speeches Analyzed