It is a prudent, almost embarrassed mayor, or councilor who is the Norwegian title, that SVT meets in the town hall in Kongsvinger.
- We have many talented Swedes employed in preschool, school and the health service.
We are completely dependent on the Swedes, says Lars Andreas Uglem.
- I understand the frustration and that they feel treated differently.
"The test must be taken in Norway"
Both he and the municipal doctor Camilla Kvalö Smedtorp point out that the corona test is not something the municipality has invented.
- We do not have a mandate to give any exceptions.
That is the regulations, says Camilla Kvalö Smedtorp.
And if I do the test in Sweden, what happens then?
- I'm sorry, the test must be taken in Norway, otherwise it does not apply.
Can't do without the Swedes
For Kongsvinger, as for many other border municipalities, a great deal of work now awaits to organize the tests.
And a concern that the Swedish commuters will get tired and look for work in Sweden instead.
Both the municipality and the local companies would have difficulty coping without the Swedish staff.
- It is a challenge to explain and I understand the Swedish frustration, says councilor Lars Andreas Uglem.
Are you worried that the Swedes will quit?
- I hope and believe that we will solve it together.
In the clip, you hear the councilor and the municipal doctor explain the new rules.