Ministry cuts HPV vaccine from budget
The Finance Ministry’s budget proposal for next year has cut funds earmarked for inoculating girls against the human papillomavirus (HPV), one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.
Adding the jab to the national vaccination programme would have cost 8.2 million euros in the first year.
Approved health sector initiatives meanwhile include extending the paid month-long paternity leave, known as "daddy month," by 12 days, giving new dads 54 days to care for their babies.
To safeguard the purchasing power of low-income earners, the government is introducing index adjustments for certain basic social benefits granted by the Social Insurance Institution (Kela). The move is designed to offset the impact of the increases in VAT rates on the purchasing power of low-income earners.
The lion’s share of the state budget is earmarked for the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, with funds totalling some 12.6 billion euros.
Latest in: News
Pre Helsinki aims to uncover up-and-coming Finnish fashion designers
A new fashion event launched in the Finnish capital, Pre Helsinki, is aimed at raising the international profile of young home-grown designers.
Animal rights activists cleared of pig-farm video charges
Nearly all charges have been dropped against animal rights activists who secretly filmed cases of neglect at pork farms.
More Finnish kids opt to study English than native languages
English remains by far the most-studied foreign language in Finnish comprehensive schools.
Pussy Riot members to appear at Helsinki multicultural fest
The masked Russian activists will make a guest appearance with a Finnish band, as well as taking part in a public discussion forum.
Researcher: Schoolkids need more sleep
Finnish schoolchildren are suffering more disruption to their sleep, pain symptoms and concurrent multiple health problems, according to a doctoral dissertation presented on Friday at Turku University.
New ministers take their posts
The SDP’s ministerial rejig took effect on Friday, giving the cabinet a majority of women. Two new ministers joined the cabinet, two leave, and one changes post.
Research shows increased inbreeding in endangered wolf population
A doctoral dissertation presented on Friday at Oulu University has found that the Finnish wolf population has been hunted to such an extent that even its short-term viability is under threat. The genetic diversity of Finland’s wolves also decreased significantly during the 15-year study.
Allotment gardens bring community spirit
Spring brings many citydwellers to community gardens – including growing numbers of immigrants.
Starbucks to open in landmark Aalto building?
The world’s largest coffeeshop chain plans to open its first non-airport café in Finland at Helsinki’s Academic Bookshop, Yle has learned.
Valio recalls salad mix over datura fears
A second food product has been withdrawn in Finland because of a risk that it could contain poisonous seeds.
