Markku Rantahalvari: The budget proposal for sports contains some all-too-familiar tunes

“Dearest congregation, let us begin with a hymn proclaiming our love for sports.”

“Beautifully sung, and all in unison! Naturally, we will all remember to proclaim the importance of sports in our speeches and panel debates. Indisputable research also shows what a huge impact exercise has on public health and the public finances. Let’s keep going!”

“To finish, we will sing another familiar hymn about how dear sports are to us, which the people know better as the Hymn of the Budget Cuts.”

“Thank you, that sounded splendid too, and delivered with a smile! For the 2023 budget, the Ministry of Education and Culture proposes cuts amounting to 2.8 million euros. Oh well, these things happen – a lot! And I doubt we will be hearing any protests or complaints in here!”

“That was all for this week. Please wake Agnes on your way out. Next Sunday’s sermon will be on petrol prices! I’m sure we will have a full house and plenty of passionate debate. Have a pleasant week, and remember to exercise!”

The sports sector is used to doing great things with little money, but think of what it could achieve if it were funded properly.

Luckily budget negotiations will still take place, and the cuts can be cancelled. 2.8 million might not sound like a lot, but it can have a significant impact on public health. The sports sector is used to doing great things with little money, but think of what it could achieve if it were funded properly.

And finally, a reminder: Insufficient exercise leads to direct costs for the health services, lost days of work, increased costs for the care of the elderly, social exclusion, and increased social security benefits. The annual costs are 3.2–7.5 billion euros.

Markku Rantahalvari