Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
Second reading of the Motor Vehicle Tax Bill (364 SE)
2024-06-05
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to Draft Bill 364 SE (Motor Vehicle Tax). The argument centers primarily on economic performance and value, emphasizing the detrimental effect of tax hikes during an economic crisis and highlighting the social injustice, given that the tax funds tax breaks for the wealthy. The speaker demands the cancellation of the entire tax package, starting with the elimination of tax breaks aimed at the rich.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise on the topics of tax policy and the state budget, utilizing specific figures (e.g., 200 million in revenue collected from the car tax versus 500 million, the cost of abolishing the tax hump). Knowledge of the Riigikogu’s procedural rules is also evident, particularly regarding the procedures for voting on and grouping amendments. Economic indicators are employed, referencing the decline of the Estonian economy and its last place ranking in Europe.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative, sharp, and critical, emphasizing the injustice and detrimental nature of the government's actions. It employs both logical arguments (such as data on the economic recession) and emotional appeals (the hardships faced by rural residents, the prioritization of the wealthy, and the "brutal" compilation of amendment proposals). The tone is accusatory, noting that Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has made history by keeping Estonia in last place in Europe for several consecutive years.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Activity patterns are limited to an appearance in the Riigikogu chamber during the second reading of the Motor Vehicle Tax Act bill in June 2024. The speaker actively participates in procedural disputes, repeatedly raising questions regarding the procedure for voting on amendments. Other data concerning the frequency of appearances or activities is absent.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main confrontation is directed at the governing coalition (Reform Party, Social Democrats, Estonia 200) and personally at Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. The criticism is both substantive (harmful tax policy) and procedural (unfair handling of amendments). The adversaries are accused of favoring the rich, destroying the country's economy, and having a flexible ideology (referring to former opponents of the car tax who are now voting in favor).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is poor; the speaker emphasizes the existence of substantive amendments presented by the Center Faction, which are not obstructionist, but which the coalition refused to vote on separately. A willingness to compromise with the government is not shown; rather, the termination of the government’s work is demanded.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The strong regional focus is on rural areas, where the car tax will hit hardest because, due to the lack of public transport, a car is essential for life there. There is also mention of reducing investments for the construction of the Russian border.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic stance is strongly opposed to tax increases during a recession, arguing that they slow down the economy and have pushed Estonia to the bottom rank in Europe. It supports abolishing tax benefits aimed at the wealthy in order to avoid implementing new taxes and to restore investment (e.g., road construction, attracting foreign investment). Furthermore, it criticizes the government's budget decisions for diminishing the country's economic competitiveness.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, emphasis is placed on the necessity of tax breaks for people with disabilities and large families, criticizing the coalition for blocking these proposals. The abolition of free public transport and the removal of income tax relief for pensioners are also criticized, measures which are seen as increasing inequality.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on opposing Bill 364 SE (the Car Tax) and pushing for substantive amendments that would genuinely improve the lives of Estonian people (such as tax benefits for disabled individuals and large families). The speaker fiercely opposes the bill and sharply criticizes the coalition's procedural decisions regarding the voting process for these amendments.
4 Speeches Analyzed