Jhl union raises alarm over potential job losses in Turku due to restructuring negotiations

The JHL union, representing public sector workers, has expressed concern over the impacts of the ongoing restructuring negotiations in Turku. Last week, the city announced the initiation of this co-operation negotiation process, aimed at addressing financial adjustments within the municipal budget. The draft budget revealed a target of €50 million in savings for the upcoming year.

According to JHL, these negotiations could potentially lead to the loss of 180 jobs within the city. Additional repercussions may include part-time employment for some workers and layoffs, along with a reduction in employee benefits. However, the city has not specified the exact number of positions that will be affected.

Turku’s administrative director, Tuomas Heikkinen, noted last week that teaching staff would not be included in these discussions. JHL representatives remarked that the staff was not surprised by the announcement. According to Maarit Salonen, the chief steward for JHL in Turku, the overall atmosphere among employees is far from positive.

“There’s not a single unnecessary worker among us,” Salonen stated, reflecting the sentiment of the staff.

JHL cautioned that while the planned savings might yield short-term financial relief, the long-term implications could be detrimental to the municipality’s finances.