Mart Võrklaev is a representative of the Reform Party who has previously criticized the reduction of the gambling tax. On Wednesday, he voted in favor of the law but still considers it bad.
Võrklaev says it was a compromise. Eesti 200 MP Tanel Tein threatened to bring down the coalition if the law was not supported. Võrklaev did not change his opinion but had to accept the situation.
The law takes money from the state budget and increases money laundering risks. Võrklaev criticized it sharply but was forced to support it. He proposed saving money from the shipping industry, which will bring in 41.2 million euros over four years. Part of this money will go to culture and combating addiction.
Võrklaev emphasized that his support was due to budget savings. He considers the law bad but deemed it important to ensure financial savings. In his opinion, it is crucial for cultural figures that theaters and ERSO receive support.
Võrklaev did not consider his vote a departure from his principles. He acknowledges that compromises must be made in parliaments. He achieved a compromise on the budget but was unable to stop the law.
Võrklaev criticized the coalition's work and mentioned that Tanel Tein threatened to bring down the coalition. He considers such behavior unfair and harmful to politics.
Võrklaev points out that the gambling tax has increased in Latvia. He believes Estonia should act similarly because it would bring more money into the state budget and help combat addiction. He criticizes Estonia's current decision to reduce the tax, as it may harm state revenues and increase addiction.
Võrklaev hopes the government coalition will continue to cooperate. He points out some positive steps, such as the removal of the tax hump. However, he is concerned about the coalition's unity, especially after the adoption of the gambling tax law.