Finland: - Severe Shortage of Labour

Mika Lintilä, Finland’s Minister of Economic Affairs, says the country has a severe shortage of labour, and that the government needs to help supply meet demand.

Helsinki Times reports that Finland has 100.000 jobs available, but no takers.

Accordring to Minister Mika Lintilä the problem is more widespread than earlier.

"I’ve toured through the provinces and everyone keeps saying the same: we have a shortage of labour," Lintilä says.

The country’s labour problem has become a national problem: Finland’s approximately 300.000 people unemployed don’t seem to meet with the 100.000 jobs available.

The Finnish newspaper reports that the demand for skilled workers has increased due to economic growth.

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"We’re going to have to think about how to tackle this issue and help people relocate to where the jobs are," Lintilä says.

The minister says the government is currently drafting a proposal, and Lintilä says he hopes to offer solutions by the end of April.

"It could be supporting those who choose to move with subsidies or increasing travel compensation," Lintilä comments.