TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency under the Ministry of Agriculture (農業部林業及自然保育署), confirmed on Thursday (Dec. 12) that it received a sexual harassment complaint in August of last year when a female deputy director accused a male colleague of misconduct, prompting an investigation that concluded in October of last year with disciplinary action.
The agency conducted the investigation according to the "Gender Equality in Employment Act" (性別平等工作法) and relevant regulations. It convened a grievance committee and formed an investigative team. The team, comprising internal members and external experts, including lawyers and gender specialists, interviewed the parties involved five times to gather comprehensive insights, the agency said.
The investigation report, which compiled interview records, written statements, and other evidence, substantiated the harassment claim. As a result, the accused employee faced demotion to a non-supervisory position at rank 10. To prevent further contact, the agency reassigned another non-supervisory staff member to oversee business operations and initiated an employee assistance program to mitigate any potential psychological distress.
In response to the incident, the agency explained how it intensified its efforts to promote anti-harassment measures and the grievance hotline. It also leveraged digital courses and seminars to enhance staff awareness of gender issues and prevention strategies. By taking these steps, the agency said it aims to foster a safer and more respectful workplace environment.
