SRV clarifies role in Garden Helsinki project amid political controversy
Construction company SRV Yhtiöt Plc has issued a statement addressing its involvement in the Garden Helsinki project, following weeks of public debate and allegations of potential conflicts of interest. The company emphasized that its role is strictly professional and not tied to political activities.
SRV stated that its internal Code of Conduct prohibits the use of company funds, resources, or premises for political cooperation. "SRV does not engage in political activity nor support political movements or candidates," the company said in its release (Ilta-Sanomat, MTV Uutiset). According to the statement, SRV’s involvement in the project is limited to acting as a construction cost expert and a potential contractor, should the project advance to the implementation phase and a contract be signed.
The company clarified that it is not serving as a property developer or client in the project, nor has it influenced political decision-making related to Garden Helsinki (Ilta-Sanomat). SRV, founded in 1987, is Finland’s largest commercial property builder (MTV Uutiset).
Political ties and corruption allegations
The controversy has centered on SRV’s founder and major shareholder, Ilpo Kokkila, who has financially supported the National Coalition Party (NCP) and its candidates, including Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, in past elections (Ilta-Sanomat). The Chancellor of Justice has requested Orpo to clarify whether he was aware of Kokkila’s campaign contributions and whether any SRV representatives have contacted him or his aides regarding the Garden Helsinki project.
The Finnish government granted the arena project a conditional state aid package of €35 million last spring. Questions have since arisen about the preparation and transparency of the decision (Ilta-Sanomat). The government convened an extraordinary plenary session on Monday and is scheduled to deliver a report to Parliament on Tuesday regarding the state aid (MTV Uutiset).