The companies in Gällivare fear deterioration for the vocational preparation programs if there are changes in the distribution key within the Lapland Municipal Association where the municipalities of Kiruna, Pajala, Jokkmokk and Gällivare have a joint organization within the Lapland Gymnasium.

- What we have been informed about is that any reductions are being discussed and we think it is very bad for us in business. We have a tremendous need for vocationally educated people, such as carpenters, electricians and plumbing people, ”says Börje Johansson, president of the Entrepreneurs in Gällivare.

Lack of labor

Entrepreneurs believe that the shortage of educated labor is the greatest threat to the development of small businesses. That is why the Gällivare Businesses organization is concerned. And they fear that it will be even more difficult to recruit trained workers if the discussion is how the money should be distributed in Lapland's Gymnasium resulting in deterioration for the vocational preparation programs.

- We are very eager to get all young people into work and we see that everyone who goes into a vocational preparation course is employed. The biggest problem today for small businesses is lack of skills. The need for skilled workers is very large in the ore fields, says Börje Johansson.