Espoo rejects compensation in "Suvivirsi" song dispute after board ruling

Espoo's education director, Juha Nurmi, has denied a compensation claim filed by Lauri Ojala under the equality law, concerning the controversial "Suvivirsi" song. This decision follows a ruling by the equality and non-discrimination board in May, which imposed a 10,000 euro fine on the city of Espoo.

The board had also recommended that Espoo pay 750 euros to Ojala and 2,500 euros to his child. The board's decision was based on the finding that Espoo had failed in its duty to promote equality and had acted discriminatorily. This occurred when religious songs, such as "Suvivirsi," were performed in schools without prior notification to students and their guardians.

However, Espoo's education and learning sector maintains that Ojala was not discriminated against based on his beliefs. They assert that no immediate discrimination occurred. The situation remains under development as the news report indicates it will be updated.