Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
First reading of the Bill amending the Land Tax Act (437 SE)
2024-05-29
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to Draft Law 437 SE (amendments to the Land Tax Act), emphasizing that this constitutes the state shifting a financial burden onto local governments and landowners. The stance is value-based, centered on the protection of landowners and food security, and ultimately proposes rejecting the draft law during its first reading. Criticism is aimed at the inefficiency of the government's actions and the violation of procedural rules.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the details of the Land Tax Act, citing specific sections (e.g., § 1 subsection 8) and the tax increase range (10–100%), thereby refuting the minister's claims about lower percentage increases. They also utilize statistical data, such as the 520,000 affected households and the share of land tax in the local government budget (approx. 2.5%), and are clearly familiar with legislative procedures (the intent to develop).
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and procedure-focused, highlighting legislative flaws (specifically, the lack of a formal drafting intent) and government incompetence (the infamous 'calculator error'). It utilizes both logical arguments (referencing the precise wording of the law and the explanatory memorandum) and emotional appeals (food security, rising household costs) to underscore the negative impact of the changes. The tone is accusatory, labeling the measure a "money-grabbing scheme."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity are limited to the discussion of this specific bill in the Riigikogu, where the speaker repeatedly poses questions to the minister and requests additional time. He/She refers to current events, such as the demonstration organized by the Private Forest Association and landowners, and the positions presented in the coordination table by interest groups (the Central Union of Farmers).
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is aimed at the government and the Ministry of Finance, leveling sharp criticism at both procedural flaws (the exclusion of stakeholders) and the substance of the policy itself (the shifting of costs onto local municipalities). The criticism is intense, accusing the state of squeezing funds and covering up a previous calculation error, and demanding that the ministry "put on sackcloth and ashes."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is supportive of the inner circle, indicating agreement with the positions of colleagues (Aivar Kokk, Rene Kokk, Siim Pohlak), who similarly criticize the imposition of strict measures on local governments (LGUs). There is no evidence of seeking compromise with the coalition; instead, a proposal is made to reject the draft bill.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national issues concerning landowners and the financing of local municipalities. The concerns of agricultural producers and private forest owners are highlighted, indicating an interest in rural areas and primary production, and linking the increase in land tax to food security and rising rental prices.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views expressed are strongly opposed to tax hikes, arguing that they harm agricultural producers, drive up rental costs, and jeopardize food security. There is a perceived risk that high taxes will compel landowners to sell their property to foreign capital—specifically, investors with deep pockets. Support is given to a fiscal policy that prevents local governments from being burdened by central government expenditures.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, emphasis is placed on the impact of the residential land tax on ordinary households (520,000 owners) who suffer from high housing costs and debt related to housing repairs. A central social concern is the economic viability of landowners and ensuring food security.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is the rejection of Bill 437, the draft act amending the Land Tax Act, initiated by the Government of the Republic. The speaker is a strong opponent of the bill, stressing the need to protect landowners and ensure the procedural correctness of the legislative process, especially concerning the preparation of the development intent.
5 Speeches Analyzed