Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
2024-01-10
Political Position
The primary political stance is strong opposition to the VAT increase and a demand for lower taxes, proposing various rates (18%, 19%, 19.6%). This position is framed by highlighting the Reform Party's broken promise from 2009, thereby emphasizing their historical unreliability when it comes to forming tax policy. This constitutes a forceful opposition to the government's tax policy, rooted in both policy substance and performance track record.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the history of tax policy and VAT rates, referencing specific past and current percentages (18%, 20%, 22%). They use historical context (the 2009 promises) to support their arguments, focusing on financial matters and legislation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and critical, particularly concerning the Reform Party's earlier promises, utilizing historical recollection. It balances logical arguments (specific tax rates) with a pragmatic approach, sequentially presenting various, progressively smaller tax cut proposals. The tone is consistent and persistent, aiming to achieve at least partial success.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was highly active during one session day (January 10, 2024), delivering three consecutive speeches or proposals regarding the same topic (the reduction of VAT). This suggests a focus on the handling of a specific draft bill and active involvement in the plenary debates.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Reform Party, which is being criticized for breaking its 2009 promise regarding the temporary nature of the value-added tax (VAT). The criticism is aimed both at political untrustworthiness and specific tax hikes. The speaker notes ironically that it would be difficult for the Reform Party to support the proposal, as doing so would set a precedent for them to actually fulfill a long-standing promise.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker urges colleagues to back the VAT reduction proposals he has presented. He acknowledges that securing support from the ruling party will be difficult, but he will continue seeking backing through smaller, incremental steps. His cooperation style is direct and solicitous, focusing on pushing specific changes through.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives heavily focus on tax cuts, demanding that the VAT rate be lowered from 22% back to various lower levels (18%, 19%, 19.6%). This indicates a preference for a lighter tax burden and opposition to the government’s fiscal policy.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is clearly aimed at reducing the VAT rate, with successive bills and proposals being introduced to achieve this reduction. The speaker is an active initiator and supporter of the attempt to change tax policy, working specifically on amending concrete draft legislation.
3 Speeches Analyzed