Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
Second Reading of the Bill for the Amendment of the Income Tax Act (416 SE)
2024-05-28
15th Riigikogu, third session, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker is strongly opposed to the draft amendment to the Income Tax Act (416 SE), which aims to increase tax revenue, arguing that it takes from those who already have less. The political stance is sharply directed against the government's lack of accountability and trustworthiness, particularly concerning its promise to make the average pension tax-exempt. The position is primarily value-based, focusing on the injustice of the government's actions and accusing them of lying.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding recent political promises (the income tax-free pension) and the content of the coalition agreement. Furthermore, he/she is familiar with the budget policy statements made by finance ministers (Akkermann) and the draft bill’s objective of increasing tax revenue. The expertise focuses on political accountability and the social impact of fiscal policy.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is sharp, critical, and at times ironic, noting Jürgen Ligi's admission of error as an "historical moment." A strong emotional appeal is employed, recounting a detailed story about the elderly Mari to illustrate the negative impact of political deception (lying) and tax increases on pensioners. The language is direct and accusatory.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the debate on the draft bill, raising questions regarding the accountability of coalition members and broadening the discussion to include the formation of coalitions. He initiated a procedural step by submitting a motion to suspend the second reading.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opposition is the ruling coalition (the Reform Party, the Social Democrats, and an unnamed third party). The criticism targets both political failures—specifically, improving the budget position at the expense of the poor—and personal ethics, accusing the Prime Minister (Kaja) of lying to secure votes. The criticism is intense and uncompromising, urging people to vote against the coalition parties in the upcoming elections.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Information regarding cooperation is unavailable. The speaker is operating in opposition, attempting to halt the processing of the bill and criticizing the coalition's internal agreements and compromises.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national tax policy and its impact on pensioners across Estonia. Although the example of an elderly woman who restored a farm is used, this is not a regional policy emphasis, but rather a narrative tool designed to highlight social injustice.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker opposes increasing tax revenue if it comes at the expense of lower-income individuals, stressing that tax hikes hit those who already have less. He supports easing the tax burden on pensioners, referencing the unfulfilled promise of an income tax exemption for the average pension.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus is on social issues, particularly the welfare and dignity of pensioners. It exploits seniors as victims of political deception, highlighting their vulnerability and the necessity of protecting them from unjust taxation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the opposition to the Draft Act on Amendments to the Income Tax Act (Bill 416 SE). The speaker opposes the bill and is initiating a procedural step (a motion to suspend the second reading) to prevent its passage.
3 Speeches Analyzed