TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Labor (MOL, 勞動部) announced on Wednesday (March 5) that it plans to make short-term parental leave more flexible, although it will not amend existing laws. Last year, the ministry launched a pilot program for over six months, involving 89 companies and receiving 182 applications, primarily for three-day leaves.
Deputy Labor Minister Lee Chien-hung (李健鴻) explained that the pilot program concluded at the end of last year. He stated that MOL will review the feedback and plan new measures more flexibly, but there are no current plans to amend the law. During the pilot, the ministry offered at least five days for each leave, though companies could allow single-day leaves.
Statistics from the MOL revealed that the 182 applicants were spread across 24 companies. Most opt for three-day leaves, though applications for seven- and one-day leaves were also submitted. Lee noted that future measures might include daily or hourly leave options, which are still under internal discussion.
The ministry's analysis indicated that employees requested parental leave for babysitting absences, spending time with young children, or caring for sick children. Businesses provided feedback on the leave application process, citing concerns over human resources allocation and administrative complexity.
