Agenda Profile: Helir-Valdor Seeder
Second Reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the State Fee Act and the Amendment of Other Related Acts (417 SE)
2024-06-06
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to draft law 417 SE (raising state fees), accusing the government of panic-driven treasury replenishment and unreasonable policy. The stance is based both on outcomes (economic crisis, uncertainty) and on values, particularly in opposing the increase of the state fee for marriage. The speaker emphasizes that raising the fees by multiples is unacceptable, especially concerning personal documents.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the methodology and transparency of calculating state fees, while questioning the government's claims that these fees are cost-based. He/She notes that despite previous inquiries and questions, the calculation process has never been disclosed or detailed in the explanatory memorandum. He/She provides specific numerical examples of the multiple-fold increase in fees (e.g., rising from 45 euros to 250), particularly concerning identity documents.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and combative, accusing the government of panic and irrationality, particularly in the context of the economic crisis and the uncertainty surrounding family policy. Both logical arguments (the absence of calculation/methodology) and value-based appeals (the state's attitude toward marriage) are utilized. The speaker addresses colleagues who are working "late into the evening or night hours," and concludes by proposing a pause for reflection and the suspension of the draft bill.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the legislative process, delivering an extended speech and requesting additional time. He/She repeatedly submits motions to vote on specific amendments (the 10th and 11th). This activity is occurring late in the evening or during the night hours in the Riigikogu, which indicates dedication even at inconvenient times.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the ruling coalition, which is being criticized for its panicked and unreasonable policies during the economic crisis. The criticism targets both the tax hikes and the creation of instability within family policy. The speaker further alleges that the government failed to take into account any of the opposition’s proposed amendments, demonstrating an attitude that views compromise as unnecessary.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker points to cooperation and unified opposition with other opposition parties, specifically mentioning Isamaa's concrete proposals for reducing levies, as well as the Centre Party's suggestions for excluding certain provisions. He stresses that despite these differing approaches, the committee failed to consider any of the opposition's proposals. This cooperation is directed toward opposing and amending the draft bill.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic viewpoint is strongly against the massive raising of taxes, excises, and state fees during an economic crisis. The government’s actions are seen as a panicked attempt to fill an empty state treasury, rather than a well-thought-out policy. The speaker particularly criticizes the sharp increase in fees for personal documents, which directly affects citizens.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The text emphasizes family policy and value issues, criticizing the government for its abrupt reversal of family policy, the cutting of benefits, and the resulting creation of uncertainty. The decision to raise the marriage registration fee is viewed as a fundamental error, signaling the state's negative attitude toward families, and a proposal was put forward to abolish this fee entirely.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is centered on opposing and attempting to amend Bill 417 SE (concerning the raising of state fees). Specific amendments were proposed to reduce or eliminate certain fees (including the marriage fee), all of which were rejected. Ultimately, a motion was made to suspend the bill's second reading in order to force the government into a "cooling-off period."
6 Speeches Analyzed