The discussion about Kaskinen’s future raises many thoughts. Economy, language, and identity are issues that concern every resident. It is important that this conversation takes place with thoughtfulness and respect, because the decisions we make today will shape Kaskinen’s direction far into the future.
The idea of a possible municipal merger evokes mixed feelings. Some see it as an opportunity to strengthen the future, while others fear that local decision-making and identity could weaken. I believe that the proposal for a merger has primarily been raised for economic reasons.
Kaskinen’s economy is small and sensitive to change. The city currently pays nearly one million euros in negative state subsidies to the government — one of the highest per capita in Finland. It is therefore understandable that the topic is being discussed. At the same time, it is important to wait for the results of the upcoming reform of the state subsidy system, so we can better understand where our economy is heading and what kind of decisions the future will require.
Kaskinen has always been a strongly bilingual city. Finnish and Swedish speakers have lived side by side here, and both languages have been a natural part of everyday life. However, the municipal merger negotiations in 2019 temporarily divided the local language groups, which was a difficult time for many. That is why I hope that this time we can discuss the issue calmly and respectfully – even though emotions are strong for many.
Kaskinen has been an independent city for more than 240 years. One reason why this independence now feels uncertain is the negative state subsidy that resulted from the social and healthcare reform that came into effect in 2023. The reform significantly changed the financial balance of municipalities, and for small cities like Kaskinen, it has meant increased financial pressure. This is a reality we cannot ignore, but even in this situation, we must hold on to dignity and cooperation.
In Närpes, the language situation is different, as Swedish speakers form a clear majority. Finnish has not had the same position, even though the city has officially been bilingual since 2016. The progress has been slow, which is understandable, since Närpes now has many residents whose mother tongue is neither Finnish nor Swedish.
Kristinestad, on the other hand, resembles Kaskinen in this respect: Finnish and Swedish speakers are more evenly represented there, and no single group forms a clear majority. That is why language relations work smoothly in Kristinestad – just as they do in Kaskinen.
I myself lived in Närpes until 2006. My sister and several of my cousins still live there, and according to their experiences, it can sometimes be difficult to receive services in Finnish. This is something I must take into account in my decision-making. Language should never be a barrier to receiving services or participating in community affairs.
If the municipal merger discussion moves forward, it is crucial to carefully examine what each municipality is actually offering as part of the process. This becomes the top priority, because decisions must be based on real benefits and a clear overall picture – not on assumptions or fears. We need to see what Kaskinen could gain and what it might lose in order to make a responsible and sustainable decision.
The most desirable outcome would still be for Kaskinen to continue as an independent city – stable, vibrant, and cooperative. That would show that even a small city can thrive when determination and community spirit are strong.
Leif Aspbäck
Member of the City Council, Kaskinen
National Coalition Party (Kokoomus)
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