TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Lingering worries over low wages and the Labor Insurance Fund's bankruptcy dominate voter concerns, turning them into critical election issues.
Labor groups on Dec. 23 sharply criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Taiwan People's Party (TPP), and KMT (Kuomintang) for inadequate Labor Pension System and Labor Insurance Reform plans.
They particularly reproached DPP's Lai Ching-te for perceived arrogance and ignoring worker voices. The groups reiterated demands for higher wages, retirement security, reduced work hours, and higher employer disability insurance rates.
Taiwan Labor Front Secretary-General Son Yu-liam advocates for strengthening the Employment Service Act to address persistent low wages in corporations.
Despite wage increases, structural salary issues persist, as noted by TPP spokesman Adam Lee, calling for more wage protections. KMT Taipei City Councilor Liu Tsai-wei emphasized improving working conditions and raising minimum wages to NT＄33,000.
Both KMT and TPP focus on corporate wage increases, while DPP Legislator Hung Sun-han highlights flexible work hours and industry innovation, including a new national talent service center.
However, solutions to labor insurance bankruptcy remain elusive, with Son advocating for a special Legislative Yuan committee on pension issues. Inflation's impact on labor and the importance of enhancing labor rights and wages will significantly influence the upcoming elections.
