JHL President Päivi Niemi-Laine said that the walkout was a response to the government's plans to introduce employment reforms that could make it easier to terminate contracts and increase the likelihood of fixed-term employment relationships. Niemi-Laine called for the 'constant humiliation of employees' and criticized the administration for not heeding the demands of the workforce.
The walkout is part of a series of political demonstrations launched by JHL to protest against the government's policies. The union has expressed openness to negotiate on working-life reforms. The unions contend that the government is imposing changes without consulting and force them to take stronger measures.
The pay gap between nurses, registered nurses, and elderly care professionals will never be lifted away from the pay gap. This is unfair and makes no sense, Niemi-Laine said, emphasising the impact on crucial sectors like social welfare and healthcare where labor shortages are already critical.
While the disruption may cause inconvenience to travelers, JHL guarantees that their actions are legal political demonstrations. If the government declines to review its policies, similar protests are likely to continue in the near future. To accommodate possible delays during the specific time period, travelers are urged to plan their journeys accordingly.