Antti Kaikkonen, the leader of Finland's opposition Center Party, has demanded the restoration of the household deduction conditions to their previous state. This tax deduction benefits individuals for expenses related to home renovations, cleaning, and care services when outsourced to external companies. The government, led by Petteri Orpo's National Coalition Party, has amended the deduction during its term as part of austerity measures aimed at reducing the state budget, including lowering the maximum deduction and increasing the co-payment amount.

Kaikkonen's statement emphasizes that these reductions have particularly harmed small entrepreneurs, who have faced increased difficulties, while many households have lost access to essential services due to the higher costs associated with the cuts. He argues that the decision to reduce the household deduction is one of the government's most short-sighted moves, contributing to rising unemployment as people are less able to hire services and support local businesses.

Reinstating these household deductions is presented by Kaikkonen as a swift method to provide support for small entrepreneurs and to enhance employment opportunities in the country. As debates intensify over fiscal policy and welfare support, the Center Party's stance could significantly influence the political landscape in Finland, especially with upcoming elections on the horizon.