Session Profile: Siim Pohlak
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-11-06
Political Position
The most prominent issue is the strong opposition to the car tax, which is being demanded to be repealed because it is unfair, ineffective, and damaging to the economy. The political stance is aimed directly against the government's tax policy, stressing that taxation is already excessive and that this is the next drop in the overflowing tax cup. The viewpoint is strongly value-based and results-oriented, emphasizing the tax's negative impact on the financial well-being of ordinary people and on the business environment. The speaker represents the position of the Estonian Conservative People's Party (EKRE).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of taxation by detailing the recurring taxes and levies imposed on car owners (Value Added Tax, excise duty, state fee, parking charges). Particular emphasis is placed on the car tax's impact on the business environment and the economic recession. Furthermore, practical examples are provided concerning the registration fees for older and cheaper vehicles (such as a 1992 Audi). Alternative solutions for resolving budgetary issues are also proposed, specifically through reducing bureaucracy and combating corruption.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly combative, critical, and demanding, especially when questions are posed, where the presenter is accused of avoiding responsibility and stifling debate. Both logical arguments (a list of taxes, economic impact) and emotional appeals are employed, emphasizing the unfairness of the tax toward ordinary people and rural residents. The speaker repeatedly uses intense phrases, such as "brutally pushing the committee" and "neglect toward rural populations."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was active during the plenary session, asking repetitive questions and delivering an extended speech on the car tax issue, all on the same day. This pattern of activity demonstrates a focus on opposing a specific draft law and pressuring the rapporteur for direct answers.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the parties of the ruling coalition: the Reform Party, the Social Democrats, and Eesti 200. The criticism is aimed both at the policy itself (the unfairness and inefficiency of the car tax) and the procedure, accusing the opposing side of suppressing debate and avoiding public discussion. The speaker accuses the governing parties of indifference toward rural residents and rural life.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is confrontational, but the speaker urges the rest of the Riigikogu to vote in favor of abolishing the car tax, citing a desire to consolidate opposition to the current bill. There is no information regarding active cooperation or the pursuit of compromises with the coalition partners.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker focuses heavily on regional issues, stressing the negative impact of the car tax on people living in the countryside and on rural life itself. It is emphasized that in most rural areas, a car is a vital tool for getting to work, school, and the store, as well as for taking part in community life.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are strongly opposed to tax increases, stressing that the car tax will raise business costs and diminish the competitiveness of Estonian enterprises. The speaker argues that tax hikes will cool down the Estonian economy, which is already in decline, and force small businesses to cut jobs. They prefer solving budgetary problems through reducing bureaucracy and fighting corruption, rather than imposing new taxes.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around transport accessibility and tax fairness, particularly concerning people in rural areas and ordinary Estonians. Inequality is highlighted by citing the example of Riigikogu members being able to use expense allowances to cover car leases, compared to the growing tax burden faced by ordinary citizens.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the cancellation of the car tax bill, which the speaker actively opposes. The speaker calls upon the Riigikogu to vote today in favor of abolishing the car tax.
3 Speeches Analyzed