The government’s structural reform package lists dozens of ways in which it intends to bridge the Finnish sustainability gap, which is currently calculated at 4.7 percent of GDP.
Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen told MPs that action is needed now because previous governments failed to act.
"The more difficult structural decisions, for example about extending working life, about reforming municipal structures, or reorganizing social and healthcare services didn't have to be made during good times. We wouldn't be in this situation if the required decisions had been made in time. They can no longer be left waiting," said Prime Minister Katainen.
Katainen asked for Parliament's support for the package of reform measures, but opposition parties made it clear that none will be forthcoming.
Centre Party chairman Juha Sipilä declared the government's plans as doomed to fail.
"The structural reform package of the Katainen government is incomplete and fragmented. The government has failed to achieve its main economic and employment policy goals. The biggest reforms of this election period, municipal, social and healthcare reforms are at a standstill," Sipilä declared.
Finns Party chairman Timo Soini took up a recent speech by Finance Minister Jutta Urpilainen, made to her Social Democratic Party council, in which she claimed credit as the initiator of the entire government reform package.
"I ask you Ministers Urpilainen and Katainen, the Hansel and Gretel of government policy, which of you is directing the orchestra? You are like a red-blue pencil. Which end is on the paper and which is in the air? You are both good people, pleasant people, but which of you is in charge?" asked Soini