Finland's Supreme Police Command has given Teuvo Veijalainen, the Chief of the National Traffic Police, an official warning over recent statements that he made.
The action was prompted by Veijalainen's announcement of possible temporary layoffs - a cost-saving measure that had not been authorised by his superiors in the Supreme Police Command, nor by the Ministry of the Interior.
Supreme Police Commander Markku Salminen said on Thursday that Veijalainen can continue to work at his job when he returns from sick leave.
Veijalainen took leave of absence on Thursday, and is expected to come back to work at the end of August. During his absence, his duties will be taken care of by his deputy, Kari Rantala.
Rantala emphasised that Veijalainen's unauthorised warning of upcoming layoffs would not lead to discussions on personnel cuts. He also said that a two-year funding plan would be set up for the Traffic Police.
Salminen says that the Traffic Police are in a difficult financial situation. He says that extra funding authorised last year for the renewal of equipment was used instead for the hiring of extra personnel.
"This means that a one-off expense turned into a permanent burden for the Traffic Police."
As a result of the controversy, the Ministry of the Interior plans to clarify the distribution of authority within the police establishment. There are plans to amend the relevant statute so that the Ministry of the Interior will have final say on important decisions on police matters.
