Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
First reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic for Lowering the Value-Added Tax on Domestic Fruits and Vegetables to 5 Percent" (406 OE)
2024-05-29
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance expresses strong support for the draft legislation that would lower the VAT on domestic fruits and vegetables to 5%. The central focus is rapidly shifting away from substantive policy and towards defending the Riigikogu's Rules of Procedure and the principles of parliamentary democracy, specifically criticizing how the opposition is being treated. The speaker positions themselves as a defender of parliamentary procedural rules and traditions.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound knowledge of the Riigikogu's rules of procedure and parliamentary traditions, directly referencing the procedural rulebook ("the yellow book") and disputing its interpretation. Regarding the substantive topic (Value-Added Tax), the expertise is restricted to clarifying the scope of fruits and vegetables covered by the draft legislation.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, sarcastic, and often confrontational, particularly towards the session chairman and the presenter. Numerous rhetorical questions are employed to challenge the opponents' knowledge and to imply political bias. ("Surely your refusal isn't related to the fact that I am a representative of the opposition?") Nevertheless, the presenter is simultaneously praised for the depth and substance of the content.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker has been very active during this session, repeatedly posing questions and follow-up questions concerning both the substance of the bill and, specifically, the rules of procedure. Their long-term experience in the Riigikogu ("several mandates") is noted, which serves as the foundation for procedural arguments.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker clearly identifies themselves as a representative of the opposition and sharply criticizes the actions of the government or the majority in curtailing parliamentary democracy. The criticism is aimed at procedural injustice, specifically pointing to the bundling of amendments and the denial of an adjournment.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
While the rapporteur is commended for the substance and thoroughness, the speaker’s collaborative style tends to be demanding and controlling, concentrating on the strict observance of procedural rules. Their readiness to compromise on matters of parliamentary procedure is low, even challenging long-standing traditions.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views support a targeted tax cut (reducing VAT to 5%) for the domestic fruit and vegetable sector. This indicates a desire to use tax policy to support domestic production and competitiveness.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is supporting the bill to lower the Value Added Tax (VAT) on domestic production. An equally important focus is ensuring compliance with the Riigikogu's Rules of Procedure and procedural rules, achieved by raising questions regarding the requirements for appointing a co-rapporteur and for the official minutes/protocolling.
7 Speeches Analyzed