On the occasion of Labor Day, Premier Jiang Yi-huah extends his gratitude and respect to all workers for their service to the nation. Concerning the labor demonstration held in Taipei today, the premier said the government fully respects the demonstrators' views on labor policies and will humbly listen to their demands. He has asked the Council of Labor Affairs to consider these opinions with all diligence.
"Workers everywhere face hardships and risks in their jobs. Ensuring that workers can meet their basic living needs is the solemn responsibility of the government, and an effort that has received significant attention," said Premier Jiang.
For instance, the government on May 1, 2011 initiated amendments to three major labor rights laws—the Collective Agreement Act, the Act for Settlement of Labor-Management Disputes, and the Labor Union Act. This move marks a milestone in Taiwan's labor history and is intended to strengthen the regulatory framework for collective labor relations.
Other recent measures to further labor rights and benefits include distributing subsidies to new parents on unpaid leave, creating a labor rights fund, expanding the litigation aid mechanism and adjusting the minimum wage.
On the hot topic of labor insurance annuity reform, Jiang explained that the labor insurance program was created more than 60 years ago to extend coverage to more workers, but always collecting low premiums. As the insured workers age, Taiwan has quickly shifted toward a population of more elderly people and fewer children, meaning the fund will see more people drawing pensions and fewer paying into it. This will create enormous financial strains on the system even as the original design is already facing severe challenges.
To ensure workers achieve financial security in their old age, therefore, the government must review the system now. Reforming the labor insurance annuity scheme will allow this and future generation of workers to receive their pensions and pay their premiums without worry.
"The government will never neglect the rights of workers. It is the government's objective and commitment to see citizens live and work in a secure environment," Jiang said.