Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Value-Added Tax Act (661 SE)
2025-10-09
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political stance is strongly in favour of reducing the VAT on foodstuffs, deeming it a necessary and effective measure. The draft legislation is supported, contrasting with the Reform Party's view that direct subsidies are superior to tax exemptions. In shaping this position, emphasis is placed on political continuity and economic efficiency.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding tax pass-through mechanisms, citing examples from the experiences of Germany and Portugal, as well as supplementary measures (price monitoring and disclosure). Economic facts and references to previous political decisions (such as fuel excise duties and family benefits) are utilized. Furthermore, reference is made to the prior standpoints of economic consultants.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly aggressive and confrontational, especially toward the Reform Party and the Social Democrats, who are accused of lying and hypocrisy. It employs both logical arguments (international examples) and personal attacks and challenges (such as the demand regarding Läänemets' salary increase donation). The tone is direct and focused on debate.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is linked to active participation in the legislative debate (the bill's first reading) and the submission of questions. Previous attempts by the party to introduce similar bills are mentioned, which demonstrates consistent action toward tax reduction.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed at the Reform Party, which is being criticized for lying and political hypocrisy concerning direct benefits and taxes. The Social Democrats, meanwhile, are criticized for raising the value-added tax (VAT) and voting against earlier proposals for tax reductions, as well as for the absence of their colleagues from the chamber. The criticism is both policy-based and personal.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker supports the bill presented by the Social Democrats, demonstrating a pragmatic willingness to back sound policy. Previous joint attempts at tax reduction with the Centre Party are mentioned, which signals a readiness to cooperate with opposition parties.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on national tax policy issues and international economic experiences (Germany, Portugal). The Võru region is briefly mentioned in relation to a colleague's political activities, but this is more of a criticism aimed at their work ethic.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views strongly support lowering the VAT on foodstuffs, believing that the reduction will be passed on to prices, especially when coupled with additional monitoring measures. This contrasts sharply with the Reform Party's stance that tax exceptions are ineffective. Furthermore, reference is made to the previous EKRE government's experience in lowering fuel excise duties.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus is on economic well-being, specifically supporting families and consumers by lowering the cost of food. Criticism is being leveled at previous government decisions that reduced direct benefits for large families and abolished the income tax exemption for children.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is supporting the draft bill to reduce the VAT on foodstuffs and voting against the Reform Party's proposal for its rejection. The speaker has previously initiated or supported similar tax reduction bills. The need for additional measures (e.g., price monitoring) is emphasized to ensure the law's objective is achieved.
3 Speeches Analyzed