Helping women to achieve a balance between work and family is not only a matter of social concern but also the government's responsibility, Premier Mao Chi-kuo said today at a celebration for International Women's Day held in Taipei.
"Traditionally, women have been tasked with the responsibilities of rearing children while caring for the elderly, sacrificing their own interests for the happiness of others," said the premier.
To help raise the next generation, the government has rolled out many measures that benefit not only women, including paid prenatal checkup leave, paid paternal leave, as well as parental leave allowance, Mao said. These policies, similar to those seen in advanced countries, will hopefully allow women to continue working throughout the stages of marriage, childbirth and child rearing.
As for caring the elderly, Mao indicated that the government has been strengthening measures at medical institutions, communities and homes to take better care of senior citizens while raising women's labor participation rate at the same time.
"The government will keep working to create a friendlier environment for women where they can enjoy a better balance among life, family and work," assured the premier.
Mao also said the government will take creative approaches to developing social enterprises, which have become increasingly popular in recent years. For instance, authorities are planning to convert the former residence for the premier on Taipei's Jinhua Street into a venue for social entrepreneurs to exchange and promote their experience and to brainstorm creative ideas.
Mao commended the groups participating in today's activities, including many women-led social enterprises, indigenous businesses, immigrant-owned companies and service organizations. He touted women's contributions in economic production, serving society, boosting employment, and caring the needy—all of which light the flames of hope and give warmth to society.
He also thanked this year's participants from South Korea and Singapore, whose friendship and experiences will hopefully encourage Taiwanese women to reach out and play a more active social role.
"On the eve of Women's Day, I thank all women across Taiwan for their hard work and contributions to their families, the marketplace and the entire society. Happy Women's Day!"