NordenBladet — According to preliminary data, more than 1 035 745 votes were cast in advance in the 2022 county elections. This means that approximately 26,4 per cent of all eligible voters voted in advance.More precise figures will be published once the advance votes cast abroad have been added to the register.Numbers of advance voters in the Result Service
Source: Valtioneuvosto.fi
NordenBladet — On Tuesday 18 January, the Government held an extensive discussion on the need to update the COVID-19 strategy in response to changes in the situation caused by the rapidly spreading Omicron variant. The discussions were based on expert assessments the Government received on the epidemiological situation and the burden on medical care in the coming weeks, and on views about the need to amend the current operating strategy. The Government was also briefed on the status of preparations to expand the use of the COVID-19 passport.Government encourages public to get vaccinatedThe number of COVID-19 infections is growing rapidly in Finland, and the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) estimates that they may reach their peak at the turn of January and February. Similar developments can be seen in all EU countries with minor variation in the timeline.According to the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, a weekly average of 400–700 patients will end up in specialised healthcare over the next 12 weeks, with the maximum number reaching around 900–1,300 patients at the peak of infections. The strain on intensive care, however, is clearly more moderate than with earlier variants. It is important to bear in mind that there is still a great deal of uncertainty in the figures, as assessing the current epidemiological situation is challenging.The Government stresses the importance of vaccines in the current situation. According to experts, vaccines provide good protection against the most serious forms of the disease. The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare emphasised that it is especially important to administer third doses of the vaccines to older people and people at risk as soon as possible in order to reduce the strain on hospital care.Most restrictions to continue for two weeksTo safeguard the capacity of the healthcare system, the Government decided to extend the validity of the current restrictive measures and recommendations for two weeks, or until mid-February. The restrictive measures are still needed because of the burden on hospitals and to ensure there is enough time to give third doses of the vaccines.As an exception to this general policy, the Government will not extend the validity of its recommendations on distance learning in higher education and on recreational activities for children and young people when they end on 31 January 2022.The Government intends to lift internal border control after 31 January 2022 in line with the opinion of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, which stated that travel has not played a significant role in the development of the epidemic in Finland and that internal border control can no longer be justified on public health grounds.Government to begin updating COVID-19 strategyIn its talks, the Government decided to begin work to update its hybrid COVID-19 strategy and test-and-trace strategy. If the development of the epidemic allows, the gradual lifting of restrictions and the reintroduction of the COVID-19 passport could begin after mid-February. The updated COVID-19 strategy will outline when and how the restrictions will be lifted. The Government will decide on the matter later.Preparations for expanding use of COVID-19 passport to continue In its meeting, the Government received an update from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health on the preparations for expanding the use of the COVID-19 passport. The aim is to allow more extensive use of the COVID-19 passport at recreational events by making the necessary amendments to the Communicable Diseases Act. The Government decided to continue the preparations so that the proposal could be submitted to Parliament in February.
Source: Valtioneuvosto.fi
NordenBladet —
The Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces, General Timo Kivinen, visited Estonia on 18 January 2022. The visit was be hosted by Estonia’s Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Martin Herem.
During his visit, General Kivinen discussed the international security situation and defence cooperation between Estonia and Finland.
„Visit to Estonia was important. Direct personal meetings made it possible to discuss thoroughly international security situation and bilateral defence cooperation,“ said General Kivinen.
„Finnish and Estonian Defence Forces have been, are and will remain strong and close partners. We have a common understanding of the security situation in our region and how to maintain our defence capabilities even in a complicated security situation,“ said Lieutenant General Herem.
The visit was accompanied by meetings with Estonian Defence Minister Kalle Laanet and Finnish Ambassador Timo Kantola. General Kivinen also visited NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence and got an overview of Estonian Defence League activities.
Source: Estonian Defence Forces
NordenBladet —
At its today’s sitting, the Riigikogu heard replies to two interpellations.
The Minister of the Environment Erki Savisaar replied to the interpellation concerning the encouragement to phase out wood-stove heating in private houses (No. 99), submitted by Members of the Riigikogu Siim Pohlak, Martin Helme, Riho Breivel, Kalle Grünthal, Anti Poolamets, Kert Kingo, Urmas Reitelmann, Leo Kunnas, Helle-Moonika Helme, Henn Põlluaas, Alar Laneman, Merry Aart, Mart Helme, Uno Kaskpeit and Paul Puustusmaa.
The interpellators wished to know whether the encouragement to phase out wood-stove heating was the initiative of the Government or if it arose from the European Union guidelines.
They also wished to know the minister’s assessment of what impact the phasing out of wood-stove heating would have on people’s readiness to cope on their own with various crises, for example in the event long-term power cuts.
Savisaar explained that the discussion concerned a subsidy for replacement of heating appliances with or their renovation to lower-emission or more environmentally-friendly heating appliances. The issue of phasing out wood-stove heating is not and has never been on the agenda in the European Union. “All such suggestions are a speculation,” Savisaar emphasised. He said that the Ministry of the Environment was currently developing a support measure that aimed to improve air quality. “We are speaking of a support measure that will be funded from the European Regional Development Fund and the aims of which are more sustainable energy consumption, renewable energy and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions,” the minister noted.
Savisaar pointed out that there would be no need to phase out wood-stove heating. “It is true that wood-heating stoves emit carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. However, wood-heating is still recognised as a green energy source,” the minister said. He underlined the simple fact that trees capture carbon dioxide as they grow. If a tree is burnt in the stove, the amount of carbon dioxide released is exactly equal to what it would have been if the tree had decayed in the forest. “The problem with wood-heating is the emission from the chimney, especially in densely populated areas like cities,” the minister noted.
“Those who wish to replace an old stove have the alternatives of acquiring a new stove, renovating the old stove, connecting to district heating, replacing the existing stove by an air-to-water heat pump and transition to geothermal energy,” Savisaar described the solutions. In his opinion, there are several options. The solutions depend on personal wishes and the regional specifics.
With the planned measure, the support will be channelled to densely populated areas where local heating is the main source of heating and problems with air quality are the greatest. There is a huge difference between correct and incorrect heating. “Incorrect heating causes large amounts of smoke, soot and fine particles, and the smell and acidic smoke spread around in the neighbourhood. With skilful knowledge, it is possible to greatly reduce emissions from all types of stoves and furnaces. It is necessary to acquire high-quality firewood and to get to know the process of burning wood in your stove,” Savisaar explained.
The Minister of Education and Research Liina Kersna replied to the interpellation concerning serious changes to nursery education (No. 106).
During the open microphone, Heiki Hepner, Aivar Kokk, Tarmo Kruusimäe and Peeter Ernits took the floor.
The sitting ended at 6.29 p.m.
Source: Parliament of Estonia
NordenBladet —
The Riigikogu (Parliament of Estonia) adopted a statement in support of the territorial integrity of Ukraine, initiated by 28 members of the Riigikogu. The Statement of the Riigikogu calls on all nations to unconditionally support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
67 members of the Riigikogu voted in favour of adopting the Statement.
Text of the statement:
“In 2014, Ukraine fell victim to an unprovoked aggression, the consequences of which have still not been eliminated, and the security threats in Europe are rapidly escalating.
The Riigikogu resolutely condemns the aggression of the Russian Federation targeted against Ukraine. The Riigikogu reiterates its position of 2014 and 2018, condemning the aggressive activities of the Russian Federation against Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea.
The Riigikogu calls on all nations to unconditionally support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
The Riigikogu underlines that no country outside the European Union or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has the right to veto regarding the enlargement of these alliances. Ukraine’s membership in international organisations is a decision of Ukraine and these organisations, and third parties have no say in this issue.
The Riigikogu is of the opinion that no decision concerning Ukraine’s sovereignty can be made behind Ukraine’s back. The policy of spheres of influence is over in Europe, and the Riigikogu condemns all attempts to restore spheres of influence in Europe.
The Riigikogu firmly believes that one of the conditions for ensuring lasting peace in Europe is ending the aggression of Russian Federation against Ukraine.”
The Statement of the Riigikogu “In Support of the Territorial Integrity of Ukraine” (501 AE) was submitted by members of the Riigikogu Helir-Valdor Seeder, Heiki Hepner, Priit Sibul, Mihhail Lotman, Urmas Reinsalu, Paul Puustusmaa, Ruuben Kaalep, Leo Kunnas, Urmas Reitelmann, Henn Põlluaas, Rene Kokk, Siim Pohlak, Anti Poolamets, Jaak Valge, Martin Helme, Alar Laneman, Merry Aart, Sven Sester, Tarmo Kruusimäe, Raivo Tamm, Riina Sikkut, Heljo Pikhof, Andres Metsoja, Üllar Saaremäe, Riho Breivel, Indrek Saar, Uno Kaskpeit and Jaak Juske.
Source: Parliament of Estonia
NordenBladet — In 2020, the use of renewable energy in total energy consumption surpassed the use of fossil energy. The rapid increase in the price of emission allowances promotes investments in renewable energy and their use. The biogas sector will advance with the introduction of the distribution obligation and the guarantee of origin system. These were the conclusions of a thematic report on renewable energy published on 18 January 2022.In 2020, the total consumption of renewable energy was 140 terawatt hours (TWh). The share of renewable energy sources in the end-use energy consumption rose to 44.6%, which meant that Finland clearly exceeded the 38% target set by the EU for the use of renewable energy sources. This surplus also enabled the statistical transfer of 1.9 terawatt hours to Belgium for a price of approximately EUR 26 million. Even after the transfer, the proportion of renewable energy in Finland’s end consumption remained high (43.9%).At 74%, wood-based energy sources were the most significant source of total renewable energy consumption in 2020. Biogas production totalled 877 gigawatt hours (GWh) and its consumption 733 GWh. The remaining 144 GWh were burned off in a flare stack system.Including biomethane in the biofuel distribution obligation from the beginning of this year may increase the demand for biogas, especially as a transport fuel, and improve the profitability of biogas projects. This will also improve their eligibility for financing. Under the legislation currently in force, the distribution obligation will gradually rise from 19.5% at present to 30% by 2029.Other measures that promote biogas production include extending the scope of the guarantee of origin system to biogas and streamlining permit procedures. However, the future price level under the guarantee of origin will ultimately determine the impact of the system on a biogas company’s financial performance and profitability.The need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions has a major impact on the auto industry too. The greatest uncertainty regarding the wider use of biogas is the availability of gas vehicles in the future. Due to the regulation, auto manufacturers must significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions.The proposal on the zero emissions of passenger cars from 2035, which is included in the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ package, one-sidedly favours the introduction of electric and hydrogen cars. This would mean that the development of biogas use in transport would focus exclusively on heavy vehicles and shipping. In addition, the thermal energy required for industrial processes can be produced with biogas very easily.Business Sector Services are expert services provided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment that collate, analyse and distribute information about the operating environment for companies and the development of sectors.
Source: Valtioneuvosto.fi
NordenBladet — Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä has appointed Mari Kokko as his Special Adviser. She will assist the Minister especially in matters concerning entrepreneurship and innovation. Kokko will take up the position on 24 January 2022.Kokko, who holds a Master’s degree in Social Sciences, comes from Suomen Yrittäjät where she worked as field operations manager. Prior to that, she worked as communications officer at the Centre Party, at the communications agency Ellun Kanat, the Finnish Confederation of Professionals STTK, and as Special Adviser to Prime Minister and Minister for Public Administration and Local Government Mari Kiviniemi. Markku Rajala and Antti Siika-aho will continue as Special Advisers to Minister Lintilä. Jukka Ihanus serves as State Secretary to Minister Lintilä.
Source: Valtioneuvosto.fi
NordenBladet – On this day, 17 January, it is exactly 31 years since King Olav V died and his son took over as Norway’s new monarch. On the evening of 17 January 1991, at 10.20pm, King Olav V died at the royal cabin, Kongsseteren, in the outskirts of the capital, Oslo. Olav was King of Norway from the time he took over from his father, King Haakon VII, on 21 September 1957 until his death on 17 January 1991.
When King Olav died at Kongsseteren outside Oslo he was 87 years old and the world’s oldest monarch. Throughout the evening and in the days that followed the death, tens of thousands flocked to Castle Square in Oslo to remember King Olav and show their support for the Royal Family. The castle square was full of flowers and candles.
The official announcement of King Olav’s death was given by the King in an Extraordinary Council of State at the Palace at midnight. On January 18, King Harald gave his first speech as monarch, in which he remembered his father and asked for the support of the people in the deed that now lay before him.
King Harald later said that he thought his father, King Olav, was the first victim in the Gulf War. King Olav died of a heart attack while watching an extra news program on CNN on TV about the Gulf War. In an interview with TV2 in 2001, King Harald said that King Olav thought the Gulf War was the beginning of the Third World War and was so scared that he had a heart attack. King Harald was present when it happened and revealed that King Olav was annoyed with the Norwegian government which could not better inform him about what happened shortly before he died.
King Harald has on several occasions expressed his gratitude for the support of the people. In King Harald`s New Year’s speech in 1991 His Majesty said: “The great participation and all the sympathy we received, gave a strong feeling that the Norwegian people stood with us in a common grief. The condolence protocols from all over the country, together with the lights and all the greetings from the castle square warmed and comforted us in the most difficult days.”
In the days following the king’s death, it was not uncommon to see people crying in the streets as they passed the castle. Young children drew pictures for King Olav which they put in front of the castle. People said they could not understand that King Olav was gone. He had somehow always been there. Since 1905 he had been Norwegian Crown Prince and since 1957 King.
When a Norwegian monarch passes away, the next takes over at the same moment. Hence the expression “The King is dead – Long live the King”. Nevertheless, the transition is also accompanied by a number of ceremonial elements, of which the King’s oath to the Constitution is the most important. This took place on 21 January. King Harald and Queen Sonja also chose, like King Olav, to be blessed by the church in Nidaros Cathedral on June 23 1991.
After the blessing, the royal couple completed a ten-day round trip in southern Norway, and the following year a 22-day trip in the four northernmost counties. The custom of such a journey in connection with a royal accession dates back to the Middle Ages, when the kings allowed themselves to be praised in the various courts around the country.
NordenBladet — In its meeting on Friday 14 January, the Government’s Ministerial Working Group on Coordinating COVID-19 Response discussed the development of the epidemic, closures of food and beverage service businesses and compensation for the costs of restrictive measures. On Friday morning, the ministerial working group received an overview of the epidemiological situation and heard preliminary assessments by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare on the development of the situation and the burden on hospital care in the coming weeks.Compensation for the direct and necessary costs arising from the restrictive measures
Source: Valtioneuvosto.fi
NordenBladet — The Ministry of the Interior’s project examined ways to clarify the picture of migration to Finland in the next few years and its impacts on the Finnish migration administration, especially the Finnish Immigration Service. The aim is to ensure that the migration administration meets the needs of society by means of smooth services.The Finnish population is ageing, which means that immigration plays an important role in improving the dependency ratio and increasing the working-age population. Migration is part of a vibrant society.“The immigration of workers, students and families to Finland has increased steadily in recent years. However, the appropriations allocated to the Finnish Immigration Service within the central government spending limits will decrease in the coming years. This means that we have to find ways for the agency to bridge the gap between the growing number of asylum applications and the resources at its disposal,” says Sanna Sutter, Director of Development and Steering from the Ministry of the Interior’s Migration Department.The project examined tools that the Finnish Immigration Service can use to develop its foresight activities and the measuring of the impact and productivity of its activities.Publicity of foresight information supports political decision-makingForesight work is related to the anticipated number of applications and the resources required for processing the applications. During the project, the anticipation models of migration authorities in the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden were examined, from which viable solutions were selected for Finland’s use. In addition, workshops were organised for the Finnish Immigration Service’s employees, which resulted in a proposal for the agency’s own foresight model.The project working group recommends that the Finnish Immigration Service establish the activities of the agency’s foresight network, involve all units and processes in it and assign a clear lead responsibility to someone. External experts should also be involved in the process.The intention is to publish the foresight information based on the new model. This way, the information can also be used in public debate and political decision-making, for example concerning the agency’s resources.Social impact measurement must be continuously developedWith regard to impact, the project began to explore how to better measure the social impact that can be obtained in return for the money invested in the migration administration. The figures in the Budget do not seem to describe the impact of the migration administration in the best possible way.The project initiated the development of a more comprehensive set of indicators, but the work must continue in a systematic manner both within the Finnish Immigration Service and in cooperation with other parties in the migration administration. The Immigration Service will produce new indicators for the budget proposal and its performance agreement in spring 2022.“Developing impact indicators is a continuous process. However, better indicators are not an end in themselves or a technical exercise. They are used to assess how the operations of the Finnish Immigration Service affect our society,” says Sutter.Productivity was explored by examining human resources and allocation of working hoursProductivity refers to the input-output ratio. Productivity increases if the output grows relatively more than the use of inputs. Improving productivity requires that productivity can be measured.The thematic entity on productivity examined the allocation of personnel resources and the use of working hours at the Finnish Immigration Service. It was also noted that there is a need to get a clearer picture of the impacts of automation on the work of the agency as well as the kinds of savings that can be expected from digitalisation and the timescale within which these savings will take place. As a whole, ways to develop analyses of productivity were considered.During the project, the agency carried out pilot projects on monitoring the use of working hours and examined recruitment processes. However, consideration of how productivity can be measured should be continued. The project working group recommends that in the future the Finnish Immigration Service utilise external expert expertise in the development of productivity indicators.Finnish Immigration Service wants to serve both the client and society better than beforeThe Finnish Immigration Service will start developing the monitoring of foresight activities, productivity and impact in accordance with the recommendations. The future Finnish Immigration Service will produce accurate and up-to-date information for the planning and management of its activities and for support of political decision-making.“Many development measures are already under way, such as the ‘Lupa22’ project, which streamlines the residence permit process for employees and students, along with the development of knowledge-based management and continued digital transformation. The recommendations we have now received further boost our activities. Our aim is to serve our clients and society even better than before,” says Elina Immonen, Deputy Director General of the Finnish Immigration Service.The project was carried out under the direction of the Migration Department of the Ministry of the Interior from 20 November 2020 to 31 December 2021. The working group also included representatives from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance and the Finnish Immigration Service.
Source: Valtioneuvosto.fi
