Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
First Reading of the Motor Vehicle Tax Bill (364 SE)
2024-02-14
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is vehemently opposed to the government's economic policy and the proposed car tax, highlighting the 3% economic slump and the historically worst position the country holds within the European Union. This position seeks to reduce the inequality between rural and urban populations, proposing a bank tax as an alternative. Rational economic decisions have vanished, replaced entirely by incompetent political maneuvering.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in fiscal policy and macroeconomics, highlighting a 3% drop in GDP and damage comparable to defense spending. He/She is also familiar with the legislative procedure and the working procedures of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) committees, especially concerning the restriction of the right to ask questions. He/She uses specific figures when comparing tax revenues (200 million versus an amount twice the size of the bank tax).
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is sharply critical and combative, combining economic arguments (GDP decline, comparison of tax revenues) with emotional appeals (the hardships faced by rural residents). Irony and historical analogy (the "Hairy Jesus" reference) are employed to illustrate the incompetence of a government that means well but is incapable of execution. The speaker maintains a formal demeanor but expresses strong protest against both the substance of the draft bill and the procedural limitations imposed.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker has actively engaged in the processing of the draft bill, participating in the Finance Committee meeting and protesting there about the lack of opportunity to ask questions. He/She has submitted a written inquiry to the Prime Minister concerning the special agreement concluded with the banks and the expected income of half a billion euros. This rhythm demonstrates responsiveness to current events and the handling of draft legislation.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the Reform Party government and Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, targeting both the economic policy and the procedural restrictions surrounding the bill's deliberation in the Finance Committee. The criticism is intense, accusing the government of overseeing the largest historical decline of the Estonian economy within the European Union. The opposition remains uncompromising, proposing that the draft bill be rejected.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The approach to cooperation is focused on the opposition (the Centre Faction is proposing a motion to reject) and pressuring coalition partners to vote against the Reform Party. The speaker hopes that the smaller coalition partners will realize the situation and join the motion to reject the draft bill. No willingness to compromise with the government regarding the substance of the bill is expressed.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong regional focus is placed on rural residents and areas, highlighting the negative effect of the car tax in exacerbating inequality between urban and rural populations. It is stressed that for people living in the countryside, a car is a necessity for life, not a luxury or convenience service, and examples are provided, such as the closure of rural schools and poor public transport in Pärnu County.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views expressed are opposed to tax increases, especially when they concern essential living expenses for rural residents. They favor a bank tax as an alternative revenue source, which would generate twice the amount and allow for the avoidance of all tax hikes. They deem the government's economic policy irrational and damaging to the economy.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The text focuses on social inequality, which is deepening due to government policies, particularly concerning the declining quality of life for rural residents. Specific examples mentioned include the abolition of free public transport, the closure of rural schools, and the introduction of a car tax, all of which are compelling people to move from the countryside into urban areas.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the rejection of the motor vehicle tax bill (364 SE), achieved by making a proposal to that effect on behalf of the Centre Faction. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the need to protect the rights of Riigikogu members and to adhere to the correct procedural process so that questions can be asked in committees before a vote is taken.
7 Speeches Analyzed