Session Profile: Arvo Aller
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
2024-07-29
Political Position
The political stance is firmly against the car tax, which is deemed unconstitutional and an irredeemably bad piece of legislation. The focus is on the failure of the government's economic policy and the negative repercussions of tax hikes, demanding that the reading of the bill be immediately halted. This position is value-driven and has been forcefully articulated, stressing that this taxation is being implemented during a period of economic recession.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Expert knowledge is evident in the fields of tax policy and budget forecasts, highlighting deficiencies in VAT collection and listing various tax increases (VAT, income tax, land tax, excise duties). Detailed awareness of legislative procedures is also highlighted, criticizing errors in the explanatory memorandum (specifically, the reference to the 2027 law) and demanding clarification regarding the responsible minister.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative and critical, employing strong language, such as "completely absurd!" and the claim that "taxation into poverty is proceeding full speed ahead." It utilizes both logical arguments (economic recession, revenue projections) and emotional appeal, urging "people with a conscience" to vote in favor of the repeal. The tone remains formal, yet its substance is sharp and oppositional.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches were delivered during the Riigikogu's extraordinary session at the end of July, demonstrating active participation in urgent legislative debates. This pattern encompassed both lengthy political statements and detailed procedural questions directed at the rapporteur, focusing keenly on the quality and accountability of the draft legislation.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed at the government's tax policy and the car tax law, which is being criticized for unconstitutionality and poor legislative drafting. The criticism is intense and politically charged, highlighting the shift in the tax's purpose (from environmental protection to plugging budget holes). A compromise is ruled out because the law cannot be fixed simply by introducing amendments.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The emphasis is placed on national-level tax policy and the economic recession, along with the European context (Estonia is the only country without a motor vehicle tax). While there is mention of giving local municipalities the option to raise land tax, a specific regional focus is missing.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are strongly opposed to tax hikes, especially given the three-year-long economic downturn. The argument is that tax increases won't actually boost state revenues, but will instead encourage people to use their ingenuity to optimize their incomes. The government's policy is being described as "taxing people into poverty."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding socio-political issues, the government's approach to subsidies is criticized, with critics deeming it absurd that the increase in benefits for large families and people with disabilities is justified by enabling them to afford the car tax. Furthermore, an ironic contrast is highlighted between e-voting (which remains unreformed) and the car tax (which is being pushed through, citing the European example).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the Motor Vehicle Tax Law (the car tax) and suspending its second reading. It is also important to ensure the quality of draft legislation by highlighting errors in the explanatory memorandum and demanding the clear designation of the responsible minister concerning the analysis of the Income Tax Law.
4 Speeches Analyzed