Role of caretaker gov't explained

The Government Communications Department has explained the role of caretaker government.

This comes after the president Sauli Niinistö requested that the current Government continue as a caretaker government until the appointment of a new Government.

There are no specific provisions on the role of a caretaker government, said the official statement from the government.

Formally speaking, it has the same powers as the Government had before its resignation. Its role is determined based on practices detailed in the constitution and on interpretations of the constitution.

The caretaker government is considered capable of handling necessary routine matters and urgent matters that cannot be left for the next Government. The caretaker government will no longer implement the Government programme. It is also required to refrain from implementing new or extensive political motions that would affect the ability of the new Government to carry out its activities.

For example, the caretaker government can issue Government decrees and make administrative decisions that do not require significant assessment of their applicability in society. It is also an established practice that the caretaker government cannot decide on appointing persons to the highest government positions.

The limits of the powers of the caretaker government must be considered on a case-by-case basis by the ministry preparing the matter in question.