By Agendas: Aivar Sõerd

Total Agendas: 34

Fully Profiled: 34

2025-10-15
Discussion of the state issue of significant national importance initiated by the Committee on European Union Affairs: "Estonia's Choices and Opportunities in the European Union's 2028–2034 Long-Term Budget"

The 15th Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker demonstrates expertise concerning the European Union's financial instruments and budgetary priorities, referencing the volume (700 billion) and structure (grants and loan funds) of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). He/She employs technical terminology, such as "ESG sustainability reports" and "green awareness training courses," to substantiate the criticism and connect past experiences with the outlook of the new budgetary period.
2025-10-13
First reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Act on Simplified Taxation of Business Income and the Income Tax Act, and the Act on the Repeal of the Security Tax Act and the Amendment of the Income Tax Act (Bill 734 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker demonstrates expertise in tax policy and international tax competition, highlighting specific data on corporate income tax rates in neighboring countries (Sweden, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania). He uses technical terms, explaining the calculation of dividend income tax (22% divided by 78, or 28%), and warning about the risk of profits being moved out of Estonia.
2025-10-09
Discussion of the Crucial National Issue 'The Future of the Estonian Economy'

15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker demonstrates expertise in economic statistics and competitiveness, utilizing specific terminology such as "labor productivity" and "development plans." They reference specific data (the drop in productivity between 2021 and 2023), which confirms their evidence-based approach.
2025-10-08
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Planning Act and Other Related Acts (683 SE)

The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge regarding the terminology and practical application issues of the Planning Act, focusing on the legal substance of the concepts "execution of the plan" and "building permit." They cite specific activities as examples, such as connecting a property to the public water and electricity grids or constructing access roads, which indicates expertise in the field of real estate development.
2025-10-08
Continuation of the first reading of the Draft Law on the State Budget for 2026 (737 SE)

The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the structure of the state budget and financial management, clearly differentiating the classical cost-resource budget from the activity-based budget. Technical terminology is employed, and specific expenditure items are enumerated (e.g., travel costs, IT costs), to substantiate the methodological inconsistency across the ministries.
2025-10-06
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Securities Market Act (690 SE)

The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker demonstrates expertise in financial markets and securities regulation, utilizing technical terms such as the "prospectus exemption threshold" and "bank-centric market." He/She is capable of analyzing the four thematic clusters of the draft legislation and referencing specific data, such as the impact of Enefit Green on market volume. Furthermore, he/she emphasizes the need to strike a reasonable balance between investor protection and administrative burden.
2025-09-24
Draft law amending the Securities Market Act and, as a consequence, amending other laws (regulation of derivatives and repo transactions) – second reading

Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, plenary sitting.

Profound technical expertise is demonstrated regarding the Securities Market Act, crisis resolution measures, and the scope of financial supervision competencies. Specific terminology is utilized, such as "green bonds," "netting regulation," and "trading in derivative instruments," while explaining amendments to several pieces of legislation (e.g., the Bankruptcy Act, the Reorganization Act). This expertise is directed toward clarifying regulatory standards and correcting the precise legal phrasing.
2025-09-18
Bank of Estonia 2024 Report

15th Estonian Parliament, 6th sitting, plenary session.

The speaker demonstrates authority on the subject of financial markets and the management of central bank investment assets. Specific data is utilized, such as the 40% return on gold last year, along with references to high-quality bonds and index funds. The expertise also encompasses knowledge of global central bank purchasing trends and Eurosystem reserves.
2025-06-11
Second reading of the draft law on the state's supplementary budget for 2025 (651 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the budget structure, differentiating traditional expenditure lines (such as travel and translation services) from program-based budgeting (e.g., health sector programs). They are familiar with specific IT developments (SKAIS) and the details of the Ministry of Social Affairs' operational costs, utilizing technical terminology when discussing budget lines and programs.
2025-06-05
Discussion of the significant national issue initiated by the Economics Committee: "How to increase productivity in the Estonian economy?"

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session.

The speaker demonstrates significant expertise in economic indicators and national strategic planning. They use specific technical terminology (nominal labor productivity, activity-based budgeting) and cite concrete data and strategic documents, such as "Eesti 2035" and the 2023 figure of 77.5%. This clearly demonstrates their authority in the field of economic statistics.
2025-05-20
Draft law amending the Securities Market Act and, as a consequence, amending other laws (regulation of derivatives and repo transactions) - first reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

Strong expertise is demonstrated in financial regulation, particularly concerning derivatives and repo transactions, and financial crisis resolution. Specific technical terminology is employed, such as netting requirements and EU regulations on green bonds. Furthermore, knowledge of real estate valuation standards and the complexity of implementing statistical models in a small market is evident.
2025-05-07
Draft law amending the Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel and Electricity Excise Tax Act and the Value Added Tax Act (594 SE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

Demonstrates authority on economic and tax matters, particularly concerning fuel excise duties and VAT. It utilizes specific data regarding the drop in oil (Brent, US) and gas prices, referencing 2021 levels. It emphasizes that the commission's work relies on calculations provided by experts and qualified analysts (the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Estonia, and commercial banks).
2025-05-06
The Minister of Finance's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term strategy "Estonia 2035" (including an overview of the development directions of the public service in 2024)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in macroeconomics and national strategic indicators, focusing specifically on labor productivity and the investment climate. They utilize specific target figures (110% of the EU average) and clearly differentiate real productivity growth from apparent wealth growth driven by inflation. Furthermore, they are aware of the inter-ministerial division of responsibilities (Ministry of Finance vs. Ministry of Economic Affairs).
2025-04-23
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu "Appointment of Members of the Bank of Estonia Supervisory Board from Members of the Riigikogu" (629 OE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The speaker demonstrates expertise in the legislation governing the management of financial institutions (the Bank of Estonia Act) and the rules of procedure of the Riigikogu. He/She provides detailed references to the sections of the law, explaining the legal basis for the appointment of substitute members and the procedure for adopting the decision. Expertise is also reflected in the accurate reporting of the work of the Finance Committee and its consensus decisions.
2025-04-17
Draft Law Amending the Value Added Tax Act (593 SE) – First Reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session

The speaker demonstrates expertise in tax policy and VAT structure, focusing specifically on the details of reducing the VAT rate on foodstuffs. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of providing precise percentage data and differentiating the tax rates for various food groups (potatoes, fruits, vegetables). This expertise is further evident in the demand for specific technical details concerning previous tax cuts.
2025-04-09
Draft law amending the Income Tax Act (566 SE) – First Reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session

A high level of expertise in monetary policy, banking taxation, and legislative procedure. Uses specific terminology such as Euribor, net interest income, and advance income tax, and refers to the European Central Bank's (ECB) monetary policy and forecasts for interest rate reductions. Relies on analyses provided by the Ministry of Finance and references to economists' standpoints cited by Reuters.
2025-02-18
Draft resolution "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government Regarding the Imposition of a Temporary Solidarity Tax on the Banking Sector" (535 OE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates high proficiency in taxation and the financial mechanisms of the banking sector. They use precise technical terms (advance income tax, the 22/78 tax rate, retained earnings, Euribor) and present specific statistical data regarding the income tax paid by banks (250 million euros) and the tax burden on individual banks. Furthermore, they are aware of how market conditions affect banking, referencing the decline in LHV Bank's profit.
2025-01-16
Draft law amending the State Budget Act (520 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the areas of the national budget, financial management, and legislation. Technical terminology is employed (e.g., revenue classifier, activity-based budgeting, operating expenditures), and references are made to the underlying budget logic and prior critiques (from the Chancellor of Justice and the Auditor General) concerning the itemization of costs.
2024-12-04
Second reading of the draft resolution "Approval of the Consolidated Financial Report of the State for the 2023 Financial Year" (503 OE)

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in state accounting, budget execution reports, and the procedural rules of the Riigikogu. Technical terms such as "performance indicators" and "program activities" are employed, and consistent reference is made to the discussions of the Finance Committee and the recommendations of the National Audit Office, particularly concerning the speed of transferring unused funds.
2024-12-04
Draft law amending the 2024 State Budget Act (517 SE) – third reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates specific knowledge of the budget procedure and financial details, highlighting a concrete reallocation of 10 million euros within the Ministry of Education. They are proficient in technical terms such as "funding source" and "deferral of state acquisition," and are familiar with the requirements for amending the State Budget Act. The expertise centers on the procedural aspects of budget execution and identifying the sources of fund flows.
2024-11-13
Draft law amending the State Budget Act (511 SE) - Second Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session.

The speaker demonstrates deep expertise in the state budget and budgeting methodology (activity-based and cost-based budgeting), utilizing technical terminology such as performance indicators and metrics. He supports his claims with concrete examples drawn from ministry budget programs and metrics (Ministry of Justice, road investments). Furthermore, he references the National Audit Office's analysis of five years of activity-based budgeting practice and last year's annual report.
2024-11-06
Overview of the Use and Preservation of State Property in 2023–2024. Five Years of Activity-Based State Budget: Results of the Reform and Necessary Further Decisions

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates expertise in public finance and budgeting, using specific terminology such as "activity-based budgeting," "performance information," "cost allocation models," and "metrics." They focus on the system's implementation and technical deficiencies, pointing to the ministries' inability to utilize performance data.
2024-11-06
First reading of the draft resolution "Approval of the consolidated annual report of the state for the 2023 financial year" (503 OE)

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates expertise in state finance and budgetary processes, focusing on the details of the content and procedure of the annual financial report. Particular emphasis is placed on technical aspects, such as the statistical treatment of defense equipment and expenditures. This expertise is confirmed by referencing assessments from Eurostat and the National Audit Office concerning the timely accounting of costs.
2024-11-06
Draft law amending the Income Tax Act and the Mandatory Pension Act (434 SE) - Second Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in financial and tax legislation, utilizing specific terminology (e.g., the Prospectus Regulation, leveraged loans, acquisition cost of crypto assets, covered bonds). They are capable of explaining in detail the substance and rationale behind complex amendment proposals, referencing the harmonization of statutory provisions with current regulatory frameworks. This expertise is based on close interaction with the Ministry of Finance and key market participants.
2024-10-22
Draft resolution "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government regarding the introduction of a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector" (487 OE) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

High level of expertise in the analysis of financial policy, taxation, and the banking sector. It utilizes technical terminology and specific data, for instance, by referencing the record level of corporate income tax receipts (accounting for 80% of the budget) and the significantly multiplied collections of banks' advance income tax. It supports its arguments with economic forecasts (such as the decline in Euribor) and assessments provided by foreign experts (like the chief analyst of Lithuania's SEB bank).
2024-09-16
2024 Report by the Minister of the Interior on the Implementation of the State's Long-Term Development Strategy "Estonia 2035"

The 15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting.

The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding state budgetary processes and administrative expenditures, accurately referencing the supplementary budget processed in March and its explanatory memorandum. This expertise is focused on the financial analysis of ministries' administrative costs and relocation projects, also noting the redirection of funds for teachers' salary increases.
2024-07-29
Second Reading of the Bill to Amend the Income Tax Act (443 SE)

15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu

The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the financial allocation and investment prioritization of local governments. This expertise is manifested through the recollection of specific details from the discussion held in the commission and the use of concrete examples (Viimsi municipality, a landscaping project, a community center) to analyze the policy criteria.
2024-06-06
First reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Income Tax Act and the Funded Pensions Act (Bill 434 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates expertise in financial matters, particularly regarding the Funded Pensions Act and Personal Investment Accounts (PIK). Specific statistical data is utilized to evaluate the effects of the second pillar reform, including the number of opt-outs and the implementation of pension investment accounts. Furthermore, the speaker is up-to-date on cryptocurrency regulation and issues concerning licensed service providers.
2024-05-30
Discussion of the nationally important issue: "How can the state avoid living in debt?"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting

The speaker demonstrates knowledge of public finance and macroeconomics, referring to the European Commission's latest economic forecast. He uses technical terms such as "general government debt as a percentage of GDP" and presents comparative data on the debt trends of Eurozone countries, highlighting the examples of Greece, Spain, and Ireland.
2024-05-08
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic Regarding the Imposition of a Temporary Solidarity Tax on the Banking Sector" (367 OE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session.

The speaker demonstrates strong expertise in the fields of banking, taxation, and monetary policy, utilizing specific terminology (e.g., Euribor, advance income tax, central bank monetary policy). He/She supports his/her positions with economic data, citing the growth in income tax receipts and analyzing the ratio of interest income to interest expense on deposits in relation to bank profitability. Furthermore, he/she references previous experience as the Director General of the Tax Authority.
2024-05-02
Continuation of the first reading of the Bill on the Tax on Sweetened Beverages (418 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of tax administration and financial analysis. He/She uses technical terms such as administrative expenses, fixed costs, and revenue overestimation, requesting specific data regarding the number of officials at the Tax and Customs Board. This expertise is grounded in the demand for details, referencing 2017 calculations and the analysis of the reconciliation table.
2024-03-19
The 2024 Report by the Minister of Health on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The speaker demonstrates specific expertise in the field of medicines policy, highlighting the issue that only about one-fifth of the medicinal products granted EU marketing authorization actually reach the Estonian market. Technical terms such as "national procedures" are used, and the importance of the availability of new medicines for improving treatment outcomes is emphasized.
2024-03-06
First reading of the Draft Act (379 SE) on the Amendment of the Tax Information Exchange Act, the Taxation Procedure Act, and the Income Tax Act.

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

High technical expertise in the field of international taxation and corporate finance. Specific terminology is used, such as "effective tax rate," "multinational ultimate parent entity," and "excess profit." Reference is made to specific thresholds (750 million euros, 53% dividend payout rate) and reliance is placed on the clarifications provided by the Ministry of Finance and a study conducted by the University of Tartu.
2024-01-24
Review of the Implementation of the "Fundamentals of Legislation Policy until 2030" in 2022

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the processes of transposing European Union legal acts, administrative burden, and the creation of civil service positions. This expertise is derived from continuous work in the Committee on European Union Affairs, where these issues are regularly addressed.