Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
Second Reading of the Motor Vehicle Tax Bill (364 UA)
2024-07-29
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The political position is strongly against the car tax and the cascade of taxes planned by the coalition, accusing the government of acting contrary to the interests of the Estonian state and its people. The speaker questions the main objective of introducing the tax, referring to a previous VAT example where temporary increases became permanent. The position is strongly value-based, focusing on protecting the livelihood of families and rural residents.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the history of taxation, citing the example of the VAT increase from 18% to 24%. Specific distributed revenue forecasts for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027 are demanded from the Ministry of Finance. The professional focus is also on the impact analysis of rural infrastructure and transport needs, particularly in connection with the consolidation of the school network.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative, skeptical, and dramatic, accusing the coalition of engaging in theater, or even "theater of the absurd." Both emotional appeals (the well-being of families with children) and logical demands (impact analysis, forecasts) are employed. The tone is sharp and critical, urging colleagues to "find their conscience" and vote against the tax.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Speeches were delivered during extraordinary sessions concerning the second reading of the car tax, indicating active participation in the discussions surrounding legislation being fast-tracked. The speaker is an active participant in the debate, repeatedly questioning the minister (Akkermann) and offering wide-ranging criticism of the coalition's activities.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the ruling coalition, which is facing intense criticism both for its policies (tax hikes) and for ethical and procedural issues. The Reform Party is accused of prioritizing remaining in power over actually governing the state, while the Social Democrats are criticized for being pro-Russian and appointing a "hardcore Putinist" as a minister. The criticism is sharp, with certain actions being labeled "anti-state."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is insufficient information. The speaker addresses the members of the Riigikogu, calling on them to vote against tax increases, but specific cross-party cooperation or willingness to compromise is not mentioned.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is a strong focus on the problems facing rural areas, emphasizing how the car tax affects the financial stability of large families with children. Specific attention is also drawn to the impact of school network consolidation, the distance to kindergartens, and the poor quality of public transport on rural families who often require two cars to manage.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are strongly opposed to tax hikes, as they undermine people's livelihoods and the business environment. Negative scenarios are being forecast, such as people moving out of Estonia, making purchases in neighboring countries, and an increase in cash transactions aimed at tax evasion.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It raises social issues concerning the voting rights of Russian citizens, advocating for their revocation and accusing opponents of being hostile to the state. It emphasizes the worsening financial situation for families with children, arguing that tax increases restrict children's ability to participate in extracurricular activities and sports clubs.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the draft Motor Vehicle Tax Act (364 UA), demanding its rejection and the submission of impact assessments. The speaker is an active opponent who is attempting to block both the current draft bill and the coalition’s planned future tax increases.
4 Speeches Analyzed