Finland grants Kanta-Häme wellbeing services county extra time to cover deficits

Finland’s Ministry of Finance has granted the Kanta-Häme wellbeing services county, known as Oma Häme, an extension until the end of 2029 to eliminate its budget deficit, the county announced on Thursday.

Oma Häme still faces an €85 million surplus from last year that must be covered. According to wellbeing services county director Olli Naukkarinen, the extension allows for a more controlled and realistic timeline to balance the budget, though the need for further austerity remains.

The decision enables Oma Häme to reduce its 2026 surplus target from approximately €57 million to €35 million. Around €30 million in previously unallocated adjustment measures can now be deferred, with costs covered by surpluses in 2027–2029.

However, the county still requires at least €67 million in additional adjustments by the end of 2029. The extension means a conditional revised budget approved in May will take effect, allowing planned austerity measures to proceed as scheduled, said financial director Sampo Salo.

Naukkarinen added that the ministry’s decision demonstrates confidence in Kanta-Häme’s ability to implement the necessary solutions.