Green Party Chair Sofia Virta Avoids Consequences for Parliament Absence During Reality TV Filming
The Parliament’s Speaker’s Council has decided not to impose consequences on Green Party chair Sofia Virta for her week-long absence due to the filming of the reality TV program Erikoisjoukot. The Council addressed the issue in its meeting on Tuesday, reiterating its stance that prolonged absences by representatives—particularly without an acceptable reason—are problematic.
MTV Uutiset and Yle report that Virta was absent from parliamentary duties for approximately one week while participating in the Nelonen show. The absence has drawn significant criticism in the media, though no formal disciplinary action will be taken against her (STT/MTV Uutiset, Yle).
The Speaker’s Council had previously raised concerns about MPs’ participation in reality TV programs, noting the issue in discussions last year. It suggested that as part of reforms to the MPs’ remuneration law, representatives could be allowed to proactively return part or all of their salary for short absences (Yle).
Erikoisjoukot, the program in which Virta participated, is broadcast on Nelonen, a channel owned by the Sanoma Group, which also holds a majority stake in STT. Virta has previously stated that she does not regret her participation in the show (MTV Uutiset).
The debate over MPs’ reality TV appearances has intensified in recent years, with several politicians taking leaves of absence for such programs. Former speed skater and National Coalition Party MP Mika Poutala, who also participated in Erikoisjoukot, has publicly defended Virta, dismissing the criticism as unnecessary (MTV Uutiset).