Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats
Inquiry regarding tax changes (no. 657)
2024-11-18
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fourth Session, Plenary Session
Political Position
The primary focus is on the rise in taxes and the growth of service prices; the stance is critical of the coalition and advocates for the reshaping of tax policy. It is claimed that taxes and state levies drain people's pockets, and the "tax festival" is cited as a negative impact. The position is strongly opposed to the coalition and its tax policy. There are no examples of other previous changes; the emphasis is placed on the style and function of the withdrawal/reversal within the context of the budget procedure.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates knowledge of taxes, state duties, and notarial fees, along with their regulation; mentions "state-regulated" aspects and discusses the links between taxation and service pricing. It utilizes examples drawn from explanations concerning notarial tariffs and service costs, as well as the context of the budgeting process.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
An inherently hostile/confrontational tone coupled with a sarcastic undertone (e.g., "the tax hike festival"); subtle humor and personal references directed at colleagues; strong emotional and critical rhetoric, referencing facts but framed in the style of a discussion or debate.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Three speeches delivered on the same day (November 18, 2024), focusing specifically on tax policy, notary fees, and state levies; references colleagues and the budget procedure in the Riigikogu; demonstrates a high level of diligence and frequent participation in plenary sessions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
A strong opposition to the coalition and the tax changes; it characterizes the coalition as taking irresponsibly tax-hiking steps, and its criticism is clearly political and authoritative. The intensity is high; the use of phrases like "two-faced" and directives in the context of Narva indicates a polemical approach.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker refers to colleague Jaan Karilaid and employs parliamentary dialogue, but broadly speaking, there is no clear indication of an extensive effort to seek cooperation with other parties; it seems to be more of a discussion involving one or two colleagues rather than a broad-based confrontation aimed at the coalition.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speech focuses on the broad national level but notes the situation in the Narva region and the interests of Narva residents; it highlights the region's concerns in the context of poorly managed tax policies.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker criticizes the increase in taxes and state duties, and the resulting impact on prices. They stress that "this money is still coming straight out of people's pockets," highlighting that the rising tax burden is driving up the cost of living. They suggest that state budget management and tax policy must be reformed to prevent the suppression of price growth.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data. The speeches focus on tax funding, regulation, and regional concerns, but do not address general social issues such as abortion, LGBTQ+, immigration, or similar.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on tax policy, notary fees, and state levies, as well as the budget procedure in the Riigikogu; it presents criticism regarding adopted draft legislation and tax policy, and notes the role of state regulation. It does not present specific proposed legislative drafts but emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive review of the budget and tax policy.
3 Speeches Analyzed