Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Draft law on the partial repeal of the Value Added Tax Act Amendment Act (489 SE) – first reading
2024-11-11
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
Strong opposition to the land tax increase, which is being treated as an attack on the dignity and responsibility of homeowners. The political focus centers on criticizing the governing coalition's broken promises and "steamroller" tactics, emphasizing a results-based and values-driven framework. The objective is to rectify the state's decisions and curb tax increases that render homeownership impossible.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates expertise regarding the revenue base of local governments and regional administration topics, citing their previous ministerial role. They possess detailed knowledge of historical proposals for municipal revenue bases, including the share of personal income tax and the equalization fund. Additionally, they show a strong grasp of the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is combative, critical, and at times urgent, especially when criticizing the government’s “breaking of promises” (or “perfidy”) and its “steamroller” tactics. It utilizes value-based language, linking the status of being a homeowner with dignity and responsibility. The style is formal yet purposeful, incorporating both questions and procedural interventions.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The active speaker at the ongoing session, making several questions, statements, and procedural remarks, including a request for a right of reply. He/She referenced previous activity both in the Tallinn City Council and as the Minister of Regional or Public Administration, during which all regions were visited.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong opposition to the current government coalition, accusing them of breaking their word and ramming through tax increases using the "steamroller" method. It criticizes the consequences of these policies, which make it impossible to become a homeowner. At the local level, the coalition partner (Pärtel-Peeter Pere) is criticized for accusations of wasteful spending (literally, "sowing money").
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
They mention successful coalition cooperation within the Tallinn city government, where they managed to halt the land tax increase, pointing to a readiness for local collaboration. At the national level, however, the style is confrontational and uncompromising regarding the government’s tax policy.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong focus on the problems concerning the revenue base of local governments and their specific needs. He emphasizes his role as a Tallinn representative and points to the concrete success of stopping the land tax increase in Tallinn. He also mentions previous work as Regional Minister, which involved communicating with all regions.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly opposes land tax increases, viewing them as an impediment to homeownership. Supports strengthening the revenue base of local governments by allocating a greater share of personal income tax and by attracting entrepreneurs, which points to a clear preference for measures focused on stable revenue and economic growth.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Homeownership is viewed as a matter of dignity and personal responsibility ("Your home, your responsibility; your family, your responsibility"). The focus is on how tax increases threaten this social value and compel people to change their lifestyle.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is opposing the draft bill amending the Land Tax Act (489 SE) and supporting its repeal. Additionally, attention is focused on compliance with the Riigikogu (Parliament) Rules of Procedure and internal order, and procedural issues regarding the closure of debate.
5 Speeches Analyzed