Session Profile: Siim Pohlak
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-02-21
Political Position
The political position centers on prioritizing domestic needs over foreign aid, specifically criticizing the channeling of funds to Sub-Saharan Africa while domestic savings and loan associations are left without assistance. The speaker is a strong proponent of reducing the VAT on foodstuffs, deeming the current 22% rate extremely unfair given the purchasing power of the Estonian populace. This stance is deeply value-based, emphasizing economic justice.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of tax policy, particularly concerning VAT on foodstuffs, by presenting detailed comparative data on tax rates across European Union countries (e.g., Denmark 25%, Italy 4%, Ireland 0%). They are also well-versed in the topics of state aid and credit unions. They utilize statistics and comparisons to bolster their argument regarding the unfairness of Estonia’s high tax rate.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and argumentative, extensively utilizing statistical data and European Union comparisons to support its positions. The tone is formal, addressing the respected presiding officer and rapporteur, but sharp in content, emphasizing the aspect of economic injustice. The speaker poses questions and expands the topic of the draft bill into a broader political discussion.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity demonstrate active participation in plenary sessions, by asking questions of the committee rapporteurs and intervening in the debate on draft legislation. The speaker refers to prior knowledge gained from committee discussions and their party's previous legislative activity.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is aimed at the policies of the "liberals," who are criticized for basing their decisions on European models while completely ignoring Estonian purchasing power and wage levels. The criticism is also leveled at the government’s fiscal priorities, which favor foreign aid over ensuring domestic financial stability.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation refers to joint action within the party, mentioning EKRE's previous proposal to reduce VAT. The speaker poses questions to the commission member, seeking confirmation regarding previous discussions. There is no data regarding inter-party cooperation or a willingness to compromise.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily domestic, centering on the purchasing power and wage levels of Estonian people, and supporting domestic savings and loan associations. The international focus is critical (providing aid to Sub-Saharan Africa) and comparative (examining European Union VAT rates).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are focused on easing the tax burden, particularly by lowering the VAT on foodstuffs to boost people's purchasing power. The speaker considers the 22% VAT rate unfair and supports a wider tax overhaul. He prefers directing state financial resources toward supporting domestic credit unions rather than providing foreign aid.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on VAT bills, where the speaker is objecting to the current high tax rate. He emphasizes the need to initiate a broader change to reduce the VAT on foodstuffs and agricultural products, citing his party's previous proposals.
2 Speeches Analyzed