Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
Second reading of the draft law on the 2025 state budget (513 SE)
2024-11-13
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session.
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the government's 2025 budget, labeling it a "tax hike budget" that places a heavy burden on working Estonians. The opposition to the budget targets specific tax increases (car tax, VAT, income tax) and the disregard for the principle of regionality. The speaker supports the proposal to suspend the reading of draft bill 513, arguing that the budget fails to take the Estonian people into account.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the details of the state budget, addressing the impact of the land tax increase on ministries and local municipalities. Special emphasis is placed on their knowledge of regional policy and the specific issues facing Ida-Virumaa (the closure of the unemployment fund, layoffs in the oil shale sector). Concrete figures are used regarding the ratios of job creation versus job loss in Ida-Virumaa (1,000 vs. 5,000).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and analytical, employing strong labels such as "tax hike budget" and "financing green lunacy." While the government's policy is intensely attacked, the Chairman of the Finance Committee is commended for providing substantive answers, demonstrating respect for the chamber. The appeals are a blend of logical arguments (a detailed list of taxes, the impact of regional cuts) and emotional concern for residents in rural areas.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active during the second reading of the state budget, presenting both substantive questions regarding the budget details and procedural requests (such as requests for additional minutes or supporting the motion to adjourn the reading). This pattern of activity indicates a focus on the later phase of the budgetary process and the defense of the opposition's proposed amendments.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the government and the Reform Party, who stand accused of implementing tax increases and disregarding the principle of regional balance. This criticism is policy-driven, with particularly fierce opposition directed at the introduction of the car tax and the closure of state institutions in rural areas. Furthermore, the government's hypocrisy regarding austerity measures and its consistent dismissal of opposition proposals are being highlighted.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is supportive within the opposition, praising the substantive and justified amendment proposals put forward by fellow faction members (Rain Epler, Kert Kingo). A desire is expressed to the government that the opposition’s sound proposals would be taken into account during the budget process, but it is acknowledged that this has not happened to date.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strongly regional, particularly in Ida-Virumaa, where there is criticism regarding the closure of state institutions (the Unemployment Insurance Fund offices in Kiviõli and Sillamäe, and the Jõhvi courthouse) and the disappearance of the principle of regionality amid the frenzy of budget cuts. It is emphasized that in rural areas, a car is an essential means of transport, and implementing the car tax will worsen access to healthcare. Furthermore, the inadequacy of the Just Transition Fund is criticized in light of the layoffs occurring in the oil shale sector.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views strongly oppose tax hikes, seeing them as a burden on the working population and a restriction of freedom of movement in rural areas. Criticism is leveled at the state's financial losses resulting from the scaling back of the oil shale sector, and compensation is demanded for local municipalities for the loss of land tax revenue due to nature conservation areas. The budget is viewed as an austerity budget, which nevertheless includes unjust tax increases.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social problems highlighted is the negative impact of the car tax on the mobility and healthcare accessibility of rural residents, which consequently reduces their ability to cope. The issue of supporting people with disabilities is also brought to the fore, with sharp criticism directed at linking this support to the implementation of the car tax. Furthermore, the negative effect resulting from the closure of Unemployment Insurance Fund service points on thousands of clients in Ida-Virumaa is emphasized.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is on opposing the draft 2025 State Budget Law (513 SE) and supporting the interruption of its reading. Also important are tax legislation (car tax, land tax), as well as cuts and institutional closures concerning regional policy. The speaker supports the opposition's amendments, stressing their substance and justification.
4 Speeches Analyzed