TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Agency of Corrections (矯正署) warned on Sunday (Jan. 20) that the Taiwan People's Party's (TPP, 民眾黨) proposed budget cut could threaten social stability and safety. TPP suggested a NT$100 million reduction, citing rising juvenile crime, but the agency argued it does not oversee this matter and that the current budget does not include related expenses.
The agency explained that juvenile correction facilities focus on cases adjudicated through the judicial process. They collaborate with the Judicial Yuan (司法院) and the Executive Yuan (行政院) to prevent and correct juvenile crime. This collaboration underscores the importance of maintaining the current budget to support these initiatives effectively.
The agency's budget for this year is approximately NT$16.5 billion. After mandatory expenses, only NT$2 billion remains for the upkeep of 52 facilities and inmate healthcare. The agency said an NT$100 million cut would significantly impact these essential services.
Emphasizing its role as the criminal justice system's last line of defense, the agency stressed the need for adequate budget resources. These funds are crucial for advancing prison management and aiding inmate rehabilitation, ultimately contributing to crime prevention. The potential budget cut raises questions about the future of these critical services.
