The Chairman of the Committee on Transport and Communications, Mr Suna Kymäläinen (SD.), welcomed the positive outcome of the project company negotiations on the design of large track projects.

The establishment of the Finland-rata project company and the Turku Hour Train project company was reached on Thursday in negotiations between state and regional actors. The negotiations on the project company came at just the right time, as both projects were to be eligible for CEF funding from the European Union. — The Coalition party, in a week ago, tried to stir up the climate of despair For CEF financial search. The government has things in good control. We are preparing things well and within deadlines, as this also proves, the Kymäläinen emphasises. — The planning work can begin because the project companies were completed and the CEF funding could be searched. As far as transport is concerned, I would prefer to see the spirit of constructive cooperation under the Parliamentary Working group, instead of picking up the Hötkyilyn or the loose points, says Kymäläinen. Project companies are responsible for designing Financing until the actual construction of rail projects can be initiated. The state finances the project companies by around 51% and municipalities 49%. Kymäläinen welcomes the fact that municipalities have been involved in the preparation of large track projects. It is estimated that the Finnish track design costs are EUR 150 million and the Turku hourly train will be EUR 75 million until the construction capability. Large track projects on the main line, as well as from Helsinki to the west and east of Helsinki, are an integral part of the Marinin government program's traffic-related postlines. They are also part of a broader set of government objectives. — Such large track projects cater to the needs of Finnish society in a diverse manner. With their realisation, working areas are growing and regional accessibility is further improved. People can more flexibly choose their place of residence and their way of movement. Furthermore, improving rail links contributes significantly to the ambitious climate goals of Finland, the Kymäläinen mailing list. The Kymäläinen, however, considers it important to be able to tackle the planning work as soon as possible in the Eastern high-speed rail connection. At the moment, the Ministry of Transport and Communications is currently undergoing a survey of the Eastern high-speed rail line. The report is expected to be completed during the current spring and political decisions can be taken. — I think it is very important that the development of Eastern Finland should also be taken on an equal footing with Western Finland. This government is committed. With political decisions, we take care of the regions! Kymäläinen decides.