The city of Mikkeli is considering the introduction of fines for parents of children in early childhood education who fail to attend pre-booked care sessions. According to Länsi-Savo, this potential policy seeks to penalize parents who reserve care times yet leave them unused, primarily targeting bookings longer than a week. The proposed fine is suggested to be equivalent to half of the monthly fee assigned to the care spot.

The Mikkeli Education Committee will discuss the implementation of this fine during their meeting on Thursday. City officials argue that the introduction of this fee is justified, as unutilized care times create unnecessary costs for the municipality. The issue is particularly pronounced during holiday periods, when there is a noticeable increase in the number of appointments that are canceled without notice.

Data from Länsi-Savo indicate that in July of the previous year, an average of 93 children per day were absent from daycare despite having prior reservations. This suggests a significant disruption and financial load on the municipal childcare system, prompting the city to consider measures such as fines to improve attendance and minimize wastage in their resources.