Agenda Profile: Rene Kokk
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value Added Tax Act (286 SE)
2024-02-21
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is strongly supportive of the draft bill amending the Value Added Tax Act, which is considered highly reasonable and necessary. The objective is to alleviate the financial pressure on consumers caused by inflation and high energy prices, and to help domestic producers, particularly those in the agricultural sector, remain competitive in the market. This position is strongly results-oriented, focusing on providing immediate assistance to the economy and domestic production.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the current economic situation, citing research conducted by the Estonian Institute of Economic Research and shifts in consumer behavior driven by price pressure. The specific focus is on domestic production and the financial struggles facing the agricultural sector, including issues related to capital availability and the operations of the Rural Development Foundation (MES). They also point out the decline of domestic goods available in stores and the increasing preference for foreign products.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is anxious and pressing, highlighting the severe distress faced by the agricultural sector and the immense financial strain on the populace. It employs both logical arguments (referencing economic indicators and studies) and an emotional appeal regarding the necessity of supporting domestic production and quality food. The speaker presents their position to the rapporteur in the form of questions, seeking confirmation of the necessity of the draft bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
No data available
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism is aimed at the government and the prime minister for failing to deliver on promises regarding improved capital accessibility for farmers—a commitment that was previously used as an argument against implementing a bank levy. Furthermore, criticism is leveled against a leader representing a certain organization who attempts to argue against the severity of the farmers' difficult situation, as well as against the slow response from MES. The core of the criticism targets the effectiveness of the policy and the government's failure to keep its promises.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative approach focuses on finding common ground with the rapporteur and affirming the necessity of the draft proposal, while stressing that the level of support offered is the bare minimum achievable at present. Although there are no explicit references to broader, cross-party cooperation, the necessity of unified support for the sector is highlighted.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is clearly directed at domestic production and the Estonian internal market, emphasizing the necessity of supporting Estonian products and, particularly, the agricultural sector which is currently facing difficult circumstances. The objective is to ensure greater market access for domestic production.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives support state intervention (through proposed legislation) aimed at mitigating inflation and high energy prices, thereby protecting both consumers and producers. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of ensuring capital availability for the agricultural sector, alongside criticism of the government's failure to channel financial resources into the market.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues being addressed is the financial pressure on people resulting from inflation and high energy prices. This pressure compels consumers to favor foreign products, which in turn affects the availability of quality food.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on supporting the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value-Added Tax Act (286 SE). The speaker is a strong proponent of this bill, viewing it as a minimal yet necessary measure to aid domestic producers and the agricultural sector.
2 Speeches Analyzed