The sale sparked an extensive debate within the Council. While acknowledging the importance of the property for members' recreation, speakers also understood the reasons for relinquishing it. Following a vote of 54–14, the sale was approved. Photo: Mika Heijari The UJF Council, meeting in Helsinki, has decided on measures to balance the union's finances. Next year, the union is preparing for a deficit of about one million euros. The union’s income has declined in recent years for several reasons. Jobs in the media sector have decreased, and income from membership fees has fallen. The union covers its operating costs with investment returns, but the situation is also more uncertain than before. At the same time, overall costs have risen. The Council authorised the sale of the Saariselkä holiday property, comprising the Tunturimaja lodge and Uutistunturi terraced dwelling. The union will now examine the property sale in more detail and how the proceeds will be invested. The decision does not yet affect holiday bookings at the Saariselkä properties. The sale will be made when the best possible return can be achieved. The sale of investment properties owned by the union in Helsinki is also on the cards. The sale sparked an extensive debate within the Council. While acknowledging the importance of the property for members' recreation, speakers also understood the reasons for relinquishing it. Following a vote of 54–14, the sale was approved. The reason for the sale is that the Saariselkä property has been loss-making for the union for some time. The decline in holiday home usage appears set to continue next year. Investing the proceeds from the sale of the Saariselkä properties would bring the union much-needed additional income. An autumn membership survey found that only 31 per cent of members considered the union's holiday properties to be an important or very important service. Members will retain access to the Vierumäki holiday property, which has high occupancy and generates revenue to cover operating costs. Other cost savings were also agreed. The Council approved next year’s budget and a series of savings measures. Next year, the union will discontinue its telephone switchboard and hold more meetings remotely. Additional smaller changes to union operations will be implemented to balance the finances. Full services for members will continue “The union will continue to provide comprehensive services to its members. The measures now decided by the Council will ensure that we remain strong in defending our members' interests,” said UJF President Marjaana Varmavuori. The council also received information on developing the union's membership recruitment strategy, and a detailed plan will be presented at the 2026 spring meeting of the Council. Avainsanat: council journalist UJF