Agenda Profile: Evelin Poolamets
Draft law amending the Accounting Act and, as a consequence, amending other laws (516 SE) – first reading
2024-10-22
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the government-initiated draft amendment to the Accounting Act (516 SE), proposing its rejection during the first reading. This position is primarily driven by economic and value-based concerns, highlighting the potential decrease in corporate competitiveness and raising the issue of national sovereignty during the transposition of the directive. The speaker warns entrepreneurs about a "massive bureaucracy tsunami" that will follow the adverse economic effects.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed expertise regarding the economic and administrative impacts of the legislative amendment, utilizing specific cost calculations. Estimates are provided for the total costs associated with an additional position (€50,000 annually) and mandatory auditing (€30,000 annually), pointing out an average supplementary cost of €100,000 per company. Furthermore, the speaker is well-versed in the standards governing the social aspects of sustainability reporting (e.g., gender equality, anti-harassment measures).
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker’s rhetorical style is sharp, critical, and forceful, employing strong emotional phrases such as "absurd demands" and "you are profoundly mistaken." The appeal targets both logic (specific cost data and the stance of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry) and emotion (by referencing the economic downturn and tax hikes) to underscore the gravity of the situation. The Minister is currently facing criticism for failing to answer questions concerning the technical execution and auditing aspects of the reporting process.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's pattern of activity during this period was confined to active participation in the first reading of the bill, repeatedly posing questions to the minister and delivering a lengthy address that culminated in a motion to reject the draft law. The activity is focused on opposing a specific legislative initiative.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Government of the Republic and the minister who initiated the bill, and who, in the speaker's estimation, failed to explain the technical implementation of the new requirements. The criticism is political and economic in nature, focusing on excessive bureaucracy and the reduction of corporate competitiveness. The opposition is intense, evidenced by the faction's proposal to immediately reject the bill.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speeches contain no references to cooperation with other parties or colleagues. However, to support their stance, they cite the comments made by the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry concerning the necessity for clarity and simplicity in the language of the law. No willingness to cooperate or seek compromise is demonstrated; rather, the focus is placed entirely on emphasizing opposition.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national economic environment and the competitiveness of Estonian businesses (particularly SMEs), as well as the international level, while criticizing the mandatory transposition of the European Union directive. Specific local or regional projects or communities are not mentioned.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker advocates for the free-market economy and is strongly opposed to regulations, emphasizing that the new legislation will result in a significant added burden and increased costs for businesses. Business interests are prioritized, especially those of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), for whom bureaucracy represents a disproportionately heavy load. Previous tax increases and the economic downturn are criticized, and the new law is seen as yet another factor damaging the economy.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are being addressed in a negative light because sustainability reporting compels companies to deal with topics such as gender equality, racism, cultural diversity, and transgender issues. These requirements are labeled as "absurd" and are primarily viewed as a source of administrative costs and bureaucracy, rather than a tool for social progress.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the opposition to Bill 516 SE, which seeks to amend the Accounting Act and subsequently other related legislation. The speaker strongly opposes the bill and proposes that it be rejected, highlighting its negative effects on the business environment.
5 Speeches Analyzed