Session Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-04-29
Political Position
The primary political position is opposition to the car tax bill, emphasizing its conflict with EU law and the Constitution. We support the withdrawal of the bill and the review of the tax changes, arguing that, as a coalition measure, they are excessively burdensome and inequitable. Furthermore, we stress the protection of voters and democracy, and the need for accountability in the use of public money.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Featured topics: Conflicts related to European Union law and the Constitution, the registry fee as a discriminatory mechanism, and the assessment of taxpayer damage/loss; reference is made to the European Commission's assessment, the considerations of the Chancellor of Justice, and the analysis of the impact of tax practice.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The focus is on a critical position, primarily that of the opposition; the ensuing maneuvers are emotional and symbolic, often keeping the defense of democracy and the rule of law as the ultimate prize; this is combined with a strong ethical and mathematical argument.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Interpellations concerning the same topic (EU law, constitutional law) have been repeatedly presented; prior research and extensive procedural work (inquiries, questions to the Prime Minister, discussion of proposed amendments) have been cited; subsequent judicial or parliamentary action is promised, if necessary.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is critical of the coalition, focusing on the controversial aspects of the car tax bill and demanding its withdrawal. The accusations center on political motivation and the limitation of democracy. They are prepared to take legal action if the bill is not withdrawn.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Emphasis on Inclusion and Cooperation: [They] have drafted amendments together with stakeholders and refer to the coalition's current state of affairs; the Centre Party faction's more than 300 substantive amendments are mentioned; [they] are ready to continue cooperation with other factions and committees, while simultaneously remaining critical of the coalition.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Focus on regional and rural impacts: the Võru meeting is mentioned, along with the specific characteristics of rural areas (people with disabilities, large families, rural schools). Furthermore, the influence of regional policy on the car tax bill and overall accessibility is emphasized.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic policy perspective is critical of the revenues and expenditures related to the car tax. The primary criticism concerns the utility of the taxation and the risk of diminished purchasing power. There is a desire to use the revenues for road construction or innovation, while simultaneously demanding exceptions (for long-term households and people with disabilities) and a review of the tax's quality. It is emphasized that taxes must not exacerbate poverty.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social themes focus on the protection of constitutional rights (for people with disabilities and large families), reducing the risk of inequality and poverty, and ensuring equality. The necessity for specific provisions and additional support measures is highlighted. Furthermore, the text addresses the burdens that have arisen for the sports sector, as well as the protection of cultural and identity values via excessive regulatory measures.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislator's priorities center on the discussion of the car tax bill's proceedings, addressing interpellations, and the submission of substantive amendments. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of withdrawing the bill and the responsibility required to balance the parliamentary procedure. Furthermore, the need to ensure transparency and constitutional considerations is mentioned, alongside planning for potential judicial intervention.
7 Speeches Analyzed