Labour orgs announce demo against govt austerity measures

Two major trade union federations of the country- The Central Organisation of Finnish Trade Unions (SAK) and Finnish Confederation of Professionals (STTK)- on Monday announced to stage a demonstration protesting against the government cuts in working conditions and social welfare.

The demonstration with the slogan “Stop Now” will take place on February 1 in Helsinki Senate Square from 12.00 to 14.00, said an official press release.

The trade unions and employee confederations have participated in tripartite working groups and discussion events set up by the government, attending parliamentary hearings to stress the severe human impact of decisions and the minimal effect of some measures in terms of boosting employment and saving costs.

SAK and STTK are accordingly calling on all individuals and civil society organisations who are concerned about this government policy to join the demonstration.

The common message from the unions and their allies to a government seeking cuts in working conditions and public wellbeing is to suspend these preparations at once.

"The first cuts affecting the unemployed have already taken effect and the government is already preparing further measures. Weaker job security, unpaid sick leave and restrictions on the right to strike are just around the corner. The attack on employee rights will enable a massive increase of social inequality in Finland," said SAK President Jarkko Eloranta.

Unions affiliated to SAK and STTK will make their own decisions on how to participate in the demonstration.

"The government reforms of employment conditions are wholly motivated by ideology, and entirely lacking in verified impacts on employment or the national economy. It is quite incredible that the government is choosing to ignore assessments of the impacts of those reforms and popular opinion," said STTK President Antti Palola.

Bus transport from provincial centres will be arranged for demonstrators attending from other parts of Finland. Food and programme events will also be arranged at Helsinki Senate Square. Several civil society organisations have already declared their intention to join the demonstration.