TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Interior Minister Lin Yu-chang revealed on Wednesday (Sept. 27) to the Legislative Yuan that the families of the four firefighters who died in a recent factory explosion in Pingtung County will each receive consolation money of around NT＄28 million.
Minister Lin also announced that arrangements will be made for the deceased firefighters to be enshrined in the Martyrs' shrines, paying homage to their sacrifice.
The tragic incident occurred on Sept. 22 at Launch Technologies, a golfing equipment company located in the Pingtung Technology Industrial Park. It was not just a fire but subsequent blasts that led to nine fatalities, including four firefighters.
Regretfully acknowledging the significant casualties and injury, Minister Lin expressed hopes of reviewing and improving current mechanisms, amending regulations, reinforcing governance over local governments to promote public safety policies, and enhancing awareness of disaster prevention for the security of people's lives and properties.
This came after the Pingtung County Government ascertained that the Launch Technologies factory inappropriately stored chemical volumes exceeding regulations by 30 times.
In response, Minister Lin stated that the Ministry of the Interior aims to increase whistleblowers' rewards, encouraging individuals to report unlawful activities boldly.
