May Day flags to honour workers fighting coronavirus

On this Labour Day, 1st May, flags will be flying in honour of Finnish workers fighting coronavirus.

In these exceptional times, many people are working in demanding conditions to fight coronavirus, said the interior ministry in a press release.

The ministry recommended that on 1 May this year the flags will be flying especially in honour of all those working against coronavirus.

In the fight against the virus, healthcare personnel work in the frontline, as do the personnel of the services for older people. Coronavirus has made working conditions difficult for police officers, border guards, teachers, public transport workers, cleaners, supermarket cashiers, and many other professionals, too.

“On Labour Day, we celebrate Finnish work and spring. During the coronavirus epidemic, it is important to thank all those who keep the vital functions of the society up and running, despite the emergency conditions. Many of them do not have the opportunity to telework and many have had to reorganise their work completely and very quickly,” said Interior Minister Maria Ohisalo.

Flags are to be raised at 8:00 in the morning and lowered at 9:00 in the evening.