Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
Value-Added Tax on Foodstuffs
2025-01-22
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, information briefing
Political Position
The political focus is on demanding the immediate reduction of VAT on foodstuffs to improve the livelihood of the Estonian people. The representative sharply criticizes the government's inaction and procedural delays, such as "analyses" and "working groups," viewing them as tools for killing off initiatives. The position is strongly results-oriented, demanding bold actions instead of mere words.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The representative demonstrates knowledge regarding the implementation and impact of tax policy, citing the previous reduction in fuel excise duties as an example. He/She emphasizes the government's role in monitoring pricing to ensure that the tax cut reaches consumers, rather than simply boosting merchants' profits. He/She also refers to the experience of other European countries regarding the reduction of VAT on foodstuffs.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style of speech is sharp, challenging, and sarcastic, accusing the opposing side of political games and inaction. Rhetorical questions are employed, along with a reference to the Prime Minister's quote ("it's still hard to be stupid"), to underscore the government's inability to make decisions. The tone is formal, but the substance is aggressively critical, demanding courage from the minister.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the coalition parties (the Social Democrats and the Reform Party) and a specific minister. Criticism is aimed at political inaction and the abuse of procedures, the goal of which is to "kill" initiatives. The Social Democrats are especially criticized for playing the role of "internal opposition" while they actually support the government's policies.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
A willingness to cooperate is lacking; the representative issued a direct appeal to the minister to be brave and act independently, rather than simply falling in line with the coalition's policy. He/She is not offering compromises, but instead demanding that the opposing side change its position and take immediate action.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (the livelihood of the Estonian people) and on international comparisons (the VAT policies of European countries). Specific local or regional topics are not addressed.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports tax cuts (VAT, excise duties) as a tool for improving people's livelihood and lowering prices. The representative holds the view that tax cuts will reach consumers if the government actively monitors the situation and takes corresponding measures against merchants. The views lean toward fiscal relief for consumers.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social concern is the increasing difficulty Estonian people face in making ends meet, which is being addressed through economic policy measures, specifically by lowering the VAT on foodstuffs. The social focus is on economic security.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the reduction of VAT on groceries. The representative is a strong supporter of this initiative and criticizes the government for creating analyses and working groups instead of taking action, arguing that these groups obstruct necessary legislative changes.
1 Speeches Analyzed