Union and employer representatives have started talks aiming at a labour market settlement. Along with the new government budget and reforms, this is seen as crucial for salvaging the economy.
According to Lauri Lyly, chair of the main blue-collar labour federation, the SAK, the new government budget cleared the way for a quick labour market settlement, while the Finnish Confederation of Professionals (STTK) was more cautious in their appraisal. On the employers' side, the Confederation of Finnish Industries and Local Government Employers have already made wage offers.
There has been widespread speculation of an outcome of moderate wage rises of half a percent.
