Returning MP Pertti Hemmilä praises parliament’s working culture but notes loss of iconic post office

Veteran politician Pertti Hemmilä (National Coalition Party) has returned to Finland’s parliament after an 11-year absence, praising the institution’s enduring professionalism while noting changes to its historic building, reports Yle.

Hemmilä, who previously served four terms from 1999 to 2015, formally presented his credentials to Speaker Jussi Halla-aho on Friday. He will assume his seat on Monday, replacing Anne-Mari Virolainen, who briefly held the position after Saara-Sofia Sirén’s departure.

In an interview with Yle, Hemmilä described a warm reception from parliamentary staff. “The old, effective way of working is still there,” he said, adding that he had already reconnected with familiar officials during preparatory arrangements.

Among the changes since his last term, Hemmilä highlighted the relocation of the parliament’s information service unit—now partially housed in former storage and library spaces—and the absence of the once-legendary post office near the main hall. “That’s gone,” he remarked with a laugh.

Though his return is temporary—lasting roughly a year until the next election—Hemmilä confirmed he will stand as a candidate in the 2027 parliamentary vote. “I’m in good health and still motivated,” he said. “I expect I’ll run again.”

Virolainen, who held the seat for just over a week, was granted an exemption from her duties on Wednesday. Under Finnish rules, alternate MPs must accept the position before applying for release if they do not intend to serve.