Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats
Inquiry Regarding the Activities of Members of the Government Concerning the Raising of Taxes (No. 665)
2025-01-13
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The representative belongs to the opposition and is highly critical of the government's decision to raise taxes and service fees, particularly regarding the increase in notary fees. They describe the tax hike as detrimental to the economy, emphasizing the danger of a snowball effect and rising consumer prices. They stress the necessity of receiving answers from the government and favor evidence-based solutions rooted in consensus or compromise.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Provides clear data regarding notary services: a 30% increase and 11.5 million in additional revenue, 87 notaries (primarily in Harju and Tartu counties). The role of notary services in real estate transactions, regional distribution, and the impact on turnover are highlighted. It presents an economic analysis and connects the observations regarding notary services with the impact of broader tax increases.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is direct, confrontational, yet fact-based; it uses examples and humorous analogies (e.g., Epler's hairdresser) to illustrate economic impacts. It emphasizes the clear damage incurred, delivered via a constructive response. The format is formal, but critical and highly targeted.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Two interpellations on the same day (2025-01-13) regarding notary fees; refers to previous information sessions and emphasizes continued interest in studying the impact of the decisions. It focuses on the parliamentary debate, the request for questions and answers, and potential legislative solutions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Highly critical of the government's tax policy, emphasizing its detrimental impact on the economy and consumers, and stressing the need to find concrete answers and solutions. It rejects populist quick fixes, demanding instead thorough responses and a potential legislative debate.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Although critical, it demonstrates an open attitude toward cooperation and a constructive solution; it recommends a legislative bill and consultation rounds as the form of resolution, along with the broader involvement of stakeholders. It seeks parliamentary and committee work together with other parties.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Highlights the dominance of notaries in Harju and Tartu counties and the impact of the distribution of regional clients; notes that a shortage of clients in some counties may complicate the provision of services. Focuses on leveraging regional factors and understanding their impact.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
From an economic policy standpoint, it is receptive to raising taxes and service fees, while emphasizing that this could reduce turnover and economic growth. It utilizes arguments based on the concept that "money comes directly from turnover" and the snowball effect, and therefore prefers a cautious approach and alternative solutions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on regulating notary fees and tax policy; the desire is for solutions to be presented in the form of a draft law, utilizing consultation rounds; it is emphasized that the inquiry should lead to concrete legislative action and mitigate the negative economic impact.
2 Speeches Analyzed