Customs censures govt´s proposed austerity measures

The Finnish Customs on Monday expressed concern over the proposed cut announced by the government in the draft budget proposal for the year 2024, said Customs in a press release.

Although the four-party alliance right-wing government earlier assured to allocate more money to the Police, Customs, and Border Guard, the Customs authority said that the allocation for it was proportionately fewer compared to the other two agencies.

The Customs said that the inadequate allocation will hinder the normal activities of the agency.

“This policy must consider the level of actions and the resources of the Customs must also be developed. While other security authorities received substantial money in recent years, Customs has always seemed to be sidelined in the distribution of money,” said Hannu Mäkinen, Director General of Customs in the press release.

Pointing out the responsibility of the agency for monitoring goods traffic at all borders of Finland and related crime prevention, Mäkinen said that the Finance Ministry previously announced an allocation of six million euros for the development of technological capabilities but unfortunately cancelled the allocation finally.

The Customs authority said that the government programme pointed out to review the competencies of the Border Guard but it did not mention any such measure for Customs.

Referring to its crucial role in monitoring the ongoing sanctions imposed on Russia, the Customs demanded adequate allocations in the budget for its smooth activities.