Agenda Profile: Evelin Poolamets
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value Added Tax Act (286 SE)
2024-02-21
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is highly supportive of the draft bill to reduce the value-added tax (VAT) on foodstuffs, describing it as "very, very welcome." The primary focus is on economic relief, which benefits consumers, food producers, and local governments alike, particularly in the context of school lunches. This stance is clearly policy- and results-based, emphasizing the positive impact the bill will have on the economy and inflation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker is interested in the links between tax and economic policy (VAT, inflation) and social policy (school lunch subsidies, the sustainability of local governments). Particular emphasis is placed on the effect of inflation on local governments when providing healthy school meals. Rather than offering expert knowledge, the focus is on evaluating the impacts of the draft bill and requesting explanations.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, polite, and oriented toward questions, respectfully addressing both the presiding officer and the rapporteur. Emotional appeals are absent; the focus remains on logical analysis and demanding a thorough explanation of the economic and social consequences of the proposed bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level, specifically addressing the draft bill's impact on the Estonian economy and inflation more broadly. Attention is also drawn to the local government level, highlighting the difficulties they face in providing school lunches at current prices.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives support lowering the Value Added Tax (VAT) as a measure that helps mitigate the impact of inflation and supports both food producers and consumers. Concern is also expressed regarding the negative impact of inflation on public services and municipal budgets.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the accessibility and quality of healthy school food, emphasizing the inability of local governments to ensure it at current prices. This demonstrates concern for education and children's well-being, directly linking it to economic policy measures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Legislative focus is currently centered on the draft bill to amend the Value-Added Tax Act (286 SE), which aims to reduce the VAT rate on food products. The speaker strongly supports this initiative but is seeking clarification on its potential impact on the economy and local governments, particularly regarding funding for school lunches.
2 Speeches Analyzed