Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session
2025-04-17
Political Position
The primary focus is placed on improving the well-being of Estonian families and stimulating domestic consumption, for which a bill has been submitted proposing to lower the VAT on foodstuffs to 5%. The political attitude is strongly oppositional, criticizing the government's actions that have resulted in economic recession and high inflation. The period of the previous government (EKRE and the Center Party) is recalled positively as a time that brought a breath of fresh air, contrasting sharply with the current negative situation.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The text demonstrates expertise in taxation and fiscal policy, particularly regarding knowledge of VAT rates and the European Union regulatory framework. It utilizes specific figures (a budgetary impact of 400 million euros, VAT rates of 5%, 9%, and 13%) and references calculations provided by the Ministry of Finance. Furthermore, the individual is knowledgeable about government waste and identifying funding sources, offering alternative financing options.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone of the speech is combative, critical, and occasionally sarcastic, particularly aimed at the government and the Minister of Finance, whose viewpoints are labeled "sad reality" and "whining." It utilizes both logical arguments (citing examples from Great Britain and Ireland) and emotional, personal attacks (referencing the Finance Minister's fondness for humanities and philosophy). The style is straightforward, accusing opponents of engaging in political theater and implementing foolish policies.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
An active participant in the plenary session, delivering a presentation and answering questions regarding the draft legislation they initiated. They refer to previous work on the Finance Committee and prior activity within the government (specifically dealing with tax cuts). They also mention cooperation and the sharing of ideas within the opposition.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Reform Party and the government coalition as a whole (including the Social Democrats and Eesti 200). Criticism is aimed both at policy (economic deterioration, wasteful spending) and at the personal level (the finance minister’s incompetence, the prime minister’s focus on Brussels). It accuses the coalition of arrogance and employing the "steamroller" tactic, which results in the complete rejection of opposition initiatives.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Acknowledges cooperation within the opposition, although political competition is also noted. Regarding working with the coalition, [he/she/it] is pessimistic, citing "the mathematics of the Riigikogu chamber," but does not entirely lose hope that consensus could emerge on some issues. The previous time in government is described as a period where vigorous efforts were made to improve people's livelihoods.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The primary focus is on the national economy and the standard of living for families, using international comparisons (European countries, the United Kingdom, Ireland). It mentions a personal residence in Võru County, contrasting the views of rural residents with the context of the Viimsi Konsum, although this does not directly affect the presented legislation.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
They strongly advocate for tax reduction (specifically lowering VAT on foodstuffs to 5%) aimed at improving citizens' financial well-being and stimulating the economy. They are convinced that the budget deficit (estimated at 400 million euros) can be covered by putting an end to government waste (such as railway and energy projects). They support the principle that the more money people retain, the better the country as a whole can prosper.
14 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses on social coping through an economic lens, emphasizing the necessity of assisting lower-income families. It expresses the view that books and medicines should remain subject to the reduced VAT rate, as they are not luxury goods. It criticizes newspapers, suggesting that the preferential rate be removed from them, arguing that their content can cause "brainwashing."
14 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priority is lowering the VAT on foodstuffs to 5%, for which a draft bill has been submitted. The second focus is on increasing state budget transparency, supporting an amendment proposal for the creation of a mandatory cost-based budget appendix. It is a strong opponent of laws initiated by the government (e.g., the car tax) and ideological energy policy.
14 Speeches Analyzed