Agenda Profile: Mart Maastik
Draft law amending the Maritime Safety Act (526 SE) – first reading
2024-11-04
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The speaker strongly opposes the increase in alcohol excise duty, citing previous negative economic outcomes, such as increased border trade and reduced revenue flowing into the state coffers. However, the speaker clearly supports the draft maritime safety bill currently under discussion, deeming it very sensible. The political position is outcome-based, focusing on the practical impact of tax policy and warning against ineffective measures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the consequences of tax policy, highlighting the border trade and the decrease in Finnish tourists following a previous excise duty increase. Furthermore, the speaker directly links the problem of excessive alcohol consumption to the issue of maritime safety, emphasizing its importance from a safety standpoint.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal and interrogative, directed at the committee chairman to encourage a policy rethink and gain clarity. The speaker employs logical and evidence-based arguments, drawing upon historical experience to warn against repeating mistakes ("stepping on the same rake twice"). The tone is cautious and advisory, while simultaneously including direct praise for a specific draft bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participated in the first reading of the bill, posing repeated and specific questions to the committee chairman. This pattern demonstrates a focus on both the specific piece of legislation and the broader economic and social issues connected with it.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the general political philosophy, which assumes that increases in taxes and excise duties will always lead to economic improvement. The criticism is policy-driven, warning of harmful consequences for the state treasury that will result from repeating past errors.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker directly praises the maritime safety bill currently under discussion, demonstrating a willingness to support sensible legislative initiatives. The interaction with the committee chairman is courteous, although the speaker essentially challenges the committee's broader economic views.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on cross-border economic activity, specifically mentioning border trade and Finnish tourists, which indicates concern for the tourism sector and the economies of border regions. This highlights the impact of international trade and tourism on the state's coffers.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective is cautious regarding excise tax hikes, emphasizing that high taxes could lead to reduced state treasury revenues and the emergence of cross-border trade. The speaker acknowledges the necessity of replenishing the state coffers but favors a tax policy that avoids negative economic repercussions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker addresses excessive alcohol consumption as a significant social problem that directly impacts maritime safety and broader public security. This social concern is linked to both safety issues and economic consequences.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is on supporting the draft Maritime Safety Act (526 SE), which he/she considers very sensible. Another important priority is reviewing the issue of alcohol excise duty to prevent the recurrence of past mistakes and economic damage.
2 Speeches Analyzed