Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
2024-01-24
Political Position
The political platform focuses on improving economic competitiveness through the exploration of mineral resources, and supports direct tax cuts (excise duty on liquefied petroleum gas, the tax-exempt threshold for the use of a private vehicle). Strong emphasis is also placed on the constructive nature of the Riigikogu (Parliament) working procedures and the fair handling of opposition bills. These viewpoints are primarily policy- and results-based (competitiveness).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise on topics concerning tax policy (excise duties, tax-exempt thresholds) and the nation’s economic competitiveness. They stress the necessity of exploring mineral resources at a sensible pace to enhance the country's competitiveness. Detailed technical or statistical information is not utilized in their addresses.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is polite, formal, and constructive, utilizing addresses such as "Dear Chairman!" and "Mr. Minister!" The speaker appeals to a positive procedural culture and good will—referencing "pure luck and joy"—while simultaneously presenting his views on tax cuts and supporting draft legislation in a straightforward manner. He also makes note of the good pace of the session.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in the plenary session, posing questions to the Minister and making procedural remarks to the presiding officer. He is proactive in the legislative process, specifically announcing that the following day he will present a draft act concerning mineral resource exploration from the rostrum.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker's position is clearly oppositional, demanding constructive handling of the opposition's draft legislation from the government (or the minister) and the coalition. The criticism is aimed at the culture of procedure and procedural fairness, not at individuals.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is actively seeking constructive cooperation, asking the Minister to work with the members of their faction to ensure support for the opposition's sound legislative proposals. He appeals to the shared desire to maintain a positive and respectful culture when considering these bills.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is national, concentrating on Estonia's economic competitiveness and the research of state mineral resources. Specific regional or local topics are absent.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic policies are focused on alleviating the tax burden and supporting economic growth. He supports lowering the excise duty on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and increasing the tax-exempt threshold for the use of a personal vehicle. It is emphasized that the exploration of mineral resources enhances the country's competitiveness.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed at measures supporting the economy. Priorities include submitting a bill to accelerate the exploration of mineral resources, expressing support for lowering the excise duty on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and raising the tax-free limit for the use of a personal vehicle.
4 Speeches Analyzed