Constructive criticism dominates the discussion at the SAK Congress
Constructive criticism seems to be the dominant theme in the short speeches of the SAK Congress participants, a conclusion drawn from the first 15 contributions. In total, some 70 representatives will give speeches in the general discussion.
Representatives of the Metalworkers’ Union are worried about the future of the manufacturing industry and mining in Finland. They have admitted the need to protect the environment but warned about being too excessive.
Esa Valkonen from the Wood and Allied Workers’ Union is of the opinion that employers’ long-term goal is to break down the entire system of collective agreements.
Ilkka Nisula from the Construction Trade Union expressed the fear of a growing distance between union leaders and rank and file members.
Several speakers have strongly opposed any plans to raise the minimum retirement age.
A clear disagreement exists on the size and density of SAK’s network of regional offices. Many speakers have opposed the proposal to shrink the network.
The discussion is expected to continue until late Monday evening.