The political staff of the Ministry works in close cooperation with the civil servants with the aim to ensure that the actions and decisions of the Ministry make the best possible contribution to reaching the objectives set for them and to the welfare of the citizens.
Mr Jari Koskinen has been the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland since June 2011. In his office, and especially in managing the EU tasks, he is assisted by State Secretary.
The other polical staff consists of Special Adviser to the Minister and Counsellor. Special Adviser sees to the Minister's schedules and the planning and practical realisation of everyday work, while Senior Specialist mainly deals with the broad agricultural policy issues. In April 2010 the political staff was complemented by Mr Jan Heino, Senior Executive Specialist in forestry affairs.