By Plenary Sessions: Lauri Läänemets

The speaker demonstrates expertise on the topics of fiscal policy and social sector funding, utilizing detailed numerical data concerning the budget deficit (2 billion euros), interest payments (400 million euros), and the distribution of tax revenues (114 million euros allocated to the richest 10%). Reference is made to assessments by the Bank of Estonia and the Ministry of Finance, as well as studies regarding the causes of birth rates, which demonstrates a reliance on official sources.

The speaker demonstrates authority in the field of internal security and crisis preparedness, citing their previous experience as Minister of the Interior and a visit to Ukraine. They draw upon specific knowledge regarding the logistics and technical requirements for shelters, stressing the necessity for inexpensive and simple solutions. This expertise is based on analyses and experiences gathered from Finland, Sweden, and Ukraine.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of tax policy and the state budget, presenting specific numerical data regarding the impact of tax changes on various income levels and deciles. Specific financial indicators are utilized (e.g., 114 million euros, 400 million euros in interest costs), and reference is made to the Ministry of Finance's forecasts. Particular emphasis is placed on the fairness of tax distribution and the growth of national debt.

The speaker demonstrates in-depth knowledge of labor law and social security mechanisms, pointing out specific consequences (e.g., 10 paid hours, reduced social guarantees, the elimination of overtime pay). Furthermore, they are well-versed in the specifics of the state budget and tax policy (the 780 million euro loan, wealth distribution), as well as issues concerning internal security and the regional labor market (labor shortages in Southern Estonia, the professionalism of prison officers).

The speaker demonstrates expertise in tax policy and income distribution, citing specific salary figures (€1400, €4000) and calculations concerning the tax burden (e.g., 5% versus 15% of income allocated to VAT). He/She provides examples of the unequal impact resulting from the elimination of the tax wedge and references international practices (Finland, Sweden) regarding the feasibility of lowering the VAT rate.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in understanding the activities of public procurement supervision and law enforcement agencies (the Central Criminal Police, the Security Police), referencing a report by the National Audit Office. Regarding educational topics, reference is made to the Foresight Centre's report, and systemic solutions are discussed, such as school-based funding, the impact of extracurricular education, and the need for infrastructure for state upper secondary schools.

The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the legislative background concerning the construction of shelters, referencing the prior two years of collaboration between the Ministry of the Interior, the Rescue Board, and other ministries. Furthermore, they exhibit strong calendar analysis skills, offering examples of how public holidays fall on weekdays in 2025 and 2027 to effectively counter the government’s arguments regarding negative impact.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in regional policy, referencing specific prior initiatives by the Social Democrats (support for hobby education, the rental housing program, Robin Hood). He also shows awareness of management errors (the logical flaw in closing the Türi post office) and the need for public debate on complex ethical issues.

The speaker demonstrates authority in the area of Riigikogu (Parliament) procedural processes (ministerial presence, committee scheduling) and public finance (debt burden, fixed costs versus investments). Specific data and statistics are utilized, for example, by referencing the 135,000 people being trained in civil defense and the Ministry of Finance’s economic forecasts. The logic of abolishing the tax hump and the three positive effects of lowering the VAT are argued in detail.