central organization The Finnish Trade Union (SAK) has expressed regret over the damage caused by the political strike scheduled for early February.
Jarkko ElorantaThe SAK chairman said on Monday that the central organization was confident that the public would ultimately understand the decision to resort to such hard-line measures in protest against labor market reforms and social security cuts launched by the prime minister’s government. Stated. Peteri Olupo (NCP).
“We apologize for any harm that future strikes may cause to people,” he said in a press release. “We also hope that announcing the strike early will help people prepare for what is to come.”
A series of political strikes will be held in Finland from February 1st to 2nd, disrupting various activities and services.
The Confederation of Professional and Managerial Trade Unions (Aqava) announced on Monday that its affiliates will organize a two-hour demonstration march on February 6th. Further actions will be announced today by the Finnish Union of Health and Social Care Professionals (Tehy), the Finnish Union of Practical Nurses (Super) and the Finnish Union of Educational Workers (OAJ).
Eloranta also expressed frustration on Monday with the public debate over the tense labor market situation.
“The public assessment that the strike is large-scale is evidence of the arrogance of Finnish wage workers and their alienation from everyday life,” he claims, apparently referring to remarks by Olpo and the Minister of Employment. Arto Satonen (NCP).
“The government makes itself an actor in the labor market. Wage earners are not asking for additional benefits, they are simply trying to uphold the rules of fair working life,” he said.
He also rejected the idea that companies were vicarious victims of industrial action.
“Many of the government’s social security cuts represent goals that industry has long sought. Ideas that significantly change work-life balance for the benefit of employers are on the business lobby’s wish list. ,” Eloranta said.
Aleksi Teivainen – HT