Current issues

3.2.12

Jorma Ollila to chair working group on fair and intelligent transport

The Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications has appointed a working group to map out the way towards a fair and intelligent transport system. Mr Jorma Ollila, Chairman of Nokia's Board of Directors, is to chair the working group.

The working group will set out to explore, among other things, how Finland should proceed in the long-term implementation of a road charging system. Issues to be examined will include technology, transport, economy and legislation related questions.

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2.2.12

Kari Mokko appointed as Director of Government Communications

On Thursday 2 February, the Government appointed Mr Kari Mokko, Master of Arts, as Director of Government Communications. He will take up the office on 1 March 2012. The appointment is for the current electoral period.

Mr Mokko is currently working as Press Secretary (media relations and public image) at the Finnish Embassy in Washington D.C. Before that, he held a long-term position at the YLE Current Affairs department where he served as a television journalist, producer and programme host.

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Olli-Pekka Heinonen (picture: YLE)

2.2.12

Olli-Pekka Heinonen appointed as State Secretary to the Prime Minister

On Thursday 2 February, the Government appointed Mr Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Master of Laws, as State Secretary to the Prime Minister. He will take up the office on 1 March 2012. The appointment is for the duration of Prime Minister Katainen's term of office.

Mr Heinonen will move to the Prime Minister's Office from the Finnish Broadcasting Company, YLE, where he is employed as Director of TV Operations. Earlier, Heinonen has served as Minister of Education, Minister of Transport and Communications and Member of Parliament.

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Heidi Hautala, the Finnish Minister responsible for state ownership steering

1.2.12

Minister Hautala: Transaction between Outokumpu and ThyssenKrupp important to Finland

Heidi Hautala, the Finnish Minister responsible for state ownership steering, welcomes the agreement reached between ThyssenKrupp and Outokumpu. "With the transaction, a traditional Finnish steel company will become a new global leader in stainless steel. It will also improve the company's potential for steel production in Tornio, Finland. This is precisely the kind of development that the State and its holding company, Solidium, should promote."

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2.2.12

The new Saimaa Canal lease agreement to enter into force

The new lease agreement on the Saimaa Canal will enter into force on 17 February 2012. The scope of application of the agreement will be expanded from goods transport to also cover passenger traffic, icebreaking, pilotage and overnight stays of pleasure crafts. The traffic rights will be expanded, and passenger ships from third countries will also be able to use the canal.

In addition, the administration of the Saimaa Canal will be reformed. A Saimaa Canal office, to be situated in Lappeenranta, will be established under the Ministry of Transport and Communications.

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