Agenda Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
Third reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the State Fee Act and Related Amendments to Other Acts (417 SE)
2024-06-12
15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session.
Political Position
The representative of the Centre Faction is clearly opposed to raising state fees in the context of the third reading. He deems the tax hikes unreasonable, viewing them as a tool for filling the budget rather than serving the public interest, and notes that the increased fees unfairly burden broad segments of the population (including minors, pensioners, and the elderly). He stresses that the government’s digitalization and cost-cutting measures are not functioning equitably, and levels criticism against incompetence and the partisan increase of fees.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The representative demonstrates knowledge regarding the substance and structure of state fees, citing specific numerical details (e.g., the expedited procedure for a passport/ID card rising from 45 to 250 euros; the cost of a citizenship application increasing from 13 to 150 euros; the overall extent of the state fee increases). The representative quotes the principles established by the Supreme Court and the content of the explanatory memoranda, and refers to the budget strategy and the changes planned within the e-residency program.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speech is forceful and challenging, utilizing an appropriate amount of both emotional and argumentative approaches. Examples are employed (such as expedited travel, digital services), alongside rhetorical questions and sharp criticism of government policy. The texts adopt a somewhat narrative and almost demonstrative tone, effectively combining facts with moral considerations.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The activity is strongly linked to the same day's sitting (2024-06-12) and the discussion of the third reading. Reference is made to the Centre Party faction's 22 substantive amendments, night meetings, and the question of reconsideration with the coalition. The context of the supplementary budget and the committee files are referenced.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
A distinctly oppositional tone: the primary targets of criticism are the government and the coalition. There are accusations that the increase in state levies is partisan, intended solely to fill the budget rather than to improve service accessibility. Isolated criticisms focus on taxation, the costs associated with digital solutions, and disproportionate fees.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Constructive, yet constrained: confirms readiness to submit and discuss amendments (e.g., 22 substantive proposals), seeks reconsideration from the coalition, but ultimately does not support raising government levies. Shows some readiness for cooperation throughout the parliamentary process, though resistance is met regarding the final outcome.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective emphasizes that the increase in government levies acts as a pricing mechanism that burdens the public and does not correspond to a proportional service in return. This leads to criticism regarding tax increases implemented solely for the sake of budget fulfillment. The necessity of controlling escalating costs and improving state efficiency is stressed, including a serious review of expenditures on IT solutions and digital technology.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Emphasizes social justice and access to services. Notes that state fees affect minors, pensioners, and the elderly, and stresses the necessity of proportionality and justice; citations are provided via Supreme Court requirements and deliberations.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on the third reading of Draft Bill 417 SE and the associated amendments. A representative detailed the 22 substantive amendments proposed by the Centre Party and stressed the controversial nature of the bill regarding the increase in state fees. It was mentioned that the only amendment that passed the committee involved lowering the state fees for firearm permit applications, and the cuts to the e-residency program in the supplementary budget will be addressed as additional reports.
2 Speeches Analyzed