"The time when the SDP was in government were frosty nights for basic welfare," said Kiviniemi
Kiviniemi pledged that if the Centre continues in government, nothing will be done to cut basic welfare or benefits for families.
She argued that the SDP's neglect of the poor has been evident since 1985 and that a recent study by the Workers´ Educational Association, which is affiliated with the SDP, supports this.
"Admit it SDP, you are not a basic welfare party. For you, privileges are more important that the matters of the poor," Kiviniemi stated.
Clearly with a view to swaying voters in the run-up to next spring's Parliamentary elections, she went on to claim that the Centre is alone on the political scene in battling on behalf of basic welfare and the agricultural sector.
SDP: Look at the shadow budget
SDP representatives responded that the party has a policy in place to improve basic welfare for citizens. According to SDP Vice-Chair Maria Guzenina, her party spelled out improvements in its alternative proposal to the government's budget that comes up for a vote in December.
"For example, increasing labour market supports and basic daily unemployment payments are concrete measures in reducing poverty. I will follow with interest how the Prime Minister votes," said Guzenina
