President defends welfare services, discusses climate change in New Year speech

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President Tarja Halonen took up the issue of basic services in her televised New Year's address.
      Speaking to the nation on Monday, Halonen said that during crises like the school tragedy in Jokela, the basic security of people is put to the test. She said that it is in such situations that public services are needed, as well as action by the civic society and "simple caring for one another".
      The President said that the strength of safety nets is a decisive factor in times of emergency, but that they need to be built and cared for all the time.
      "We have grown accustomed to seeing the functioning of our society to be self-evident, and it is good that we can have confidence in security of everyday life. But it must not mean indifference, and should not lull us into a false sense of security. Basic services need to be taken care of."
     
Although Halonen praised the social cohesion of Finnish society, she also saw some cracks in Finnish well-being.
      "Although the national income has grown, welfare gaps between population groups have not disappeared: on the contrary, differences have continued to grow, especially between the extremes."
      "A special matter for concern is if we let children suffer because of this. Social cohesion and economic strength go hand in hand. If one breaks down, the other cannot be guaranteed", the President continued.
     
The President also took up the issue of climate change. "The UN Climate Conference in Bali in December was a step forward."
      "Finland needs to be involved in this work both for its own sake, and for that of our common world. We need a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle, guiding norms, and the development of cleaner technology."
      She also emphasised the importance of protecting the Baltic Sea.
      The President urged listeners to vote in the municipal elections in the autumn. "Elections are a significant part of democracy. The implementation of democracy also calls for a strong civic society - action between elections as well."


Links:
  Website of the President of the Republic of Finland: Press release 1.1.2008

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