Pirkanmaa welfare area opens co-operation talks that could affect nearly 620 staff, with cuts focused on eldercare and disability services

YLE reports the Pirkanmaa welfare area has launched co-operation negotiations that could affect almost 620 employees.

Welfare area director Marina Erhola told a Wednesday press briefing the region plans roughly 20 operational changes that could alter job descriptions and placements. Three of the proposals could lead to staff reductions of up to 40 people, although no specific euro-denominated savings targets have been set. The region says it will offer other positions to those affected. Erhola declined to name which units might see cuts.

The regional board will decide on 17 September whether to start the negotiations, which may begin as early as 25 September and must last at least six weeks. Around 450 employees in hospital services, about 160 in services for older people and people with disabilities, and roughly ten in outpatient services are within the scope. Most are in hospital services.

Social and health director Taru Kuosmanen said safety concerns and unrest at some facilities are among the reasons for change, noting that units with persistent unrest can struggle to attract new clients. Erhola added that while this year’s deficits will be covered, next year will be tougher. Central funding is expected to rise by only 0.2 percent, roughly five million euros, while wages are forecast to grow about four percent. For that reason Pirkanmaa plans smaller, steadier reforms than many other regions.

The announcement follows the region’s earlier plan to centralise outpatient psychiatry in Tampere, which officials warned could trigger staff co‑determination talks. It comes amid a series of local restructuring negotiations in the region, such as the City of Tampere’s planned co-operation talks on finance and HR functions.