Session Profile: Arvo Aller
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session.
2024-11-13
Political Position
Strong opposition to the state budget, which has been dubbed the "tax hike budget," emphasizing its negative impact on working people and residents of rural areas in Estonia. The main objections relate to the increased tax burden (car tax, income tax, VAT) and the loss of the principle of regionality due to cuts. This position is strongly policy- and value-based, supporting the proposal to discontinue the reading of the budget.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of the budget structure, tax policy, and the impact of regional cuts. Poses specific questions regarding the impact of the land tax increase on the administrative domains of ministries and subsidies for foundations. Uses specific examples of institutional closures in Ida-Virumaa (the Unemployment Insurance Fund in Kiviõli and Sillamäe, the Jõhvi courthouse) and the ratios between layoffs and new jobs in the oil shale sector.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is critical, but occasionally appreciative, praising the chairman of the Finance Committee for providing substantive answers. He uses strong and memorable phrases ("budget of tax hikes," "financing of green madness") and emphasizes the government's alleged misstatements (such as linking the car tax to support for people with disabilities). He appeals both to logic (the list of taxes) and to emotions (the deterioration of living standards in rural areas).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
An active participant in the state budget proceedings during the plenary session, both posing questions to the rapporteur and delivering a longer, substantive speech. They procedurally requested additional time (three minutes), which demonstrates a desire to thoroughly address the topic and clarify their position.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the government's policy and the budget drafting procedure, accusing the government of hypocrisy and failing to consider the Estonian people. It sharply criticizes the representatives of the Reform Party for their use of labeling and accusations, while simultaneously noting that the rapporteur managed to address the chamber respectfully. It criticizes the government's inability to take into account the opposition's substantive and concrete amendment proposals.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Acknowledges the substance and concrete justification of the amendments put forward by the opposition colleagues (Rain Epler, Kert Kingo) and the parliamentary group. It asks the government when they intend to start considering the opposition's constructive proposals—a move that would signal a desire for substantive cooperation—but simultaneously expresses skepticism regarding whether this will actually materialize.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The text describes someone with a very strong focus on regional policy and the issues facing rural areas, having been elected from Ida-Viru County himself. He stresses that the proposed car tax will restrict freedom of movement and reduce access to healthcare in rural areas. He also criticizes the closure of state institutions (such as the Unemployment Insurance Fund and courthouses) and the expansion of nature reserves, which leaves local governments without compensation for land tax revenue.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly opposed to tax increases and new taxes (motor vehicle tax), viewing them as a burden on the working population. It criticizes the austerity budget, which eliminates the principle of regional balance and worsens the accessibility of services. Skeptical regarding the Just Transition Fund, as it fails to compensate for the job losses in the oil shale sector.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses on the availability of social benefits and services. It emphasizes the issue of supporting people with disabilities, criticizing the government's alleged link between the car tax and the increase in benefits. It also draws attention to the worsening availability of healthcare in rural areas due to mobility restrictions.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main focus is on State Budget Bill 513, the suspension of the proceedings of which is supported. [The subject] acts as an opponent, criticizing the content of the budget and not supporting the Finance Committee's decision not to compensate local governments for the loss of land tax due to protected areas. [The subject] supports the opposition's specific and justified budget amendment proposals.
4 Speeches Analyzed