The
families of new-born babies might no longer receive the same childcare benefits
as before. Due to city savings and
investments, the Espoo-lisä childcare benefit will decrease.
Families
visiting WeeGee museum today gave their thoughts on potential benefit cuts. The
Linja-aho family have three children and are about to move to Espoo, so the
change will affect them.
Mother
Minttu Linja-aho said: “The notice time is too short, if one has a tight
budget.” Her husband Vesa added: “There should be at least one year’s notice,
if someone has a low income and is planning on having a child.” 
Minttu, Vilho and Vesa Linja-aho
Ville
Kuusala,who also has a young family, pointed out: “The city must look at the
whole picture, what the citizens need and so decide what sectors to make cuts
on.”
Ville Kuusala
The city
plans on investing 8,4 million euros on income and labour market support, while
only investing 6,4 million on the child benefit. Currently 3,000 children receive the
Espoo-lisä benefit. The cut will result in about 1,000 children not receiving
the benefit.
