Infrastructure construction is a locomotive for Taiwan's economic growth, Premier Sean Chen touted today at a national public works conference in Taipei. The one-day conference was held to find solutions for difficult issues faced by the industry while raising the quality and efficiency of infrastructure projects, said Public Construction Commission (PCC) officials.
The premier also commended a program proposed by PCC Minister Chern Jenn-chuan for upgrading the nation's infrastructure, saying the program contained fresh ideas and meticulous plans from thorough expert research. Mechanisms and measures the program introduces include assigning senior civil servants to evaluate procurement cases, adopting better means of settling contract disputes, and awarding contracts to the most advantageous tenders. Professional help will also be enlisted to provide technical services or manage common supply contracts or open contracts. Chen urged the PCC to step up implementation of the program.
Building infrastructure is a demanding job that requires tremendous sacrifices of personal and family time, said the premier. He thanked all public construction personnel for not only contributing to Taiwan's past growth but also laying a foundation for the future. Although the PCC is expected to undergo major reorganization next year, its work will go on and even expand in scope.
Today's conference was attended by representatives from industries, government, universities and research institutes. Topics included building a sound environment for project execution, enhancing project execution efficiency, developing a well-rounded industry, and attracting private financing for public works.