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Premier considers national Labor Day holiday amendment
Premier Chen Chien-Jen addresses inquiries on the possibility of a unified Labor Day holiday on May 1 in Taiwan, pending a meeting with the Ministry of the Interior. Legislation amendments may be considered if a decision is reached before May 20, as discussed in response to concerns raised by KMT legislator Wang Hung-wei and the National Federation of Teachers Unions.
2024/03/15 17:52
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MND: Taiwan’s resolve unshaken by potential Chinese attack
Taiwan’s Minister of National Defense asserts the futility of conflict if China’s flag is not planted at the Defense Ministry. Amid discussions on defense capabilities and American military aid, Minister Chiu emphasizes Taiwan’s self-reliance in defense matters.
2024/03/15 10:46
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Officials clash over Kinmen-Xiamen water passage
Amid tensions, Kuomintang legislator questions passage of Chinese dredging vessels in Kinmen waters. Premier responds. Spokesperson criticizes Taiwan officials. Coast Guard clarifies regulations.
2024/03/13 18:21
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Taiwan clarifies dredging ship restrictions amid tensions
In a legislative session, Taiwanese lawmaker Chen Yu-jen questions China’s dredging vessels passing through restricted waters off Kinmen. Premier Chen Chien-jen and Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling deny this possibility. Tensions escalate in the Kinmen-Xiamen waters following a recent incident involving a capsized Chinese fishing boat.
2024/03/13 18:21
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Taiwan People’s Party slams NCC for recycled report content
The National Communications Commission (NCC) faces criticism from Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Legislator Huang Kuo-chang over a report presented to the Transportation Committee of the Legislative Yuan. The TPP calls for a special investigation team amid allegations of copied content and unresolved disputes related to Mirror TV application. Accusations of NCC Chairman Chen Yaw-shyang’s influence and regulatory shortcomings add fuel to the ongoing controversy.
2024/03/11 13:26
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Economic minister confirms electricity rate adjustments
Minister of Economic Affairs Wang Mei-hua discusses electricity rate adjustments in Taiwan, emphasizing the impact on household usage below 330 kilowatt hours. Kuomintang Legislator Yang Chiung-ying opposes price hikes, proposing solutions to address citizen hardships amid inflation. Wang highlights considerations for nuclear power and renewable energy costs, amidst concerns over safety regulations and nuclear waste. Yang challenges Taipower’s deficits and criticizes passing on costs to residents through price increases.
2024/03/07 17:23
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Taiwan considers mental health leave for civil servants
The Directorate-General of Personnel Administration Personnel Division Director in Taipei supports adding mental health leave days for civil servants. The proposal includes granting one day of mental health leave each month without wage deductions. Discussions with the Ministry of Civil Service are ongoing to modify leave regulations. Democratic Progressive Party legislator Rosalia Wu advocates for this change, emphasizing no reduction in pay for civil servants taking mental health leave.
2024/03/06 17:08
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Premier considers unified Labor Day holiday amid challenges
Premier Chen Chien-jen considers a unified Labor Day holiday in Taiwan, but faces challenges. Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Lin I-chin raises concerns about added costs for police and firefighters. Minister of the Interior Lin Yu-chang emphasizes the need for consensus, while Directorate-General of Personnel Administration Personnel Division Director-General Su Chun-jung calls for further impact assessment.
2024/03/05 17:14
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Taiwanese legislator Huang Jie receives bullet-threat email
Democratic Progressive Party legislator Huang Jie and Kuomintang legislator Lo Chih-chiang faced threats, including a bullet photo and bomb threat, prompting police reports and safety measures.
2024/03/05 13:09
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Taiwan’s failed digital ID project costs taxpayers NT$280M
Vice President Lai Ching-te’s failed digital ID card policy during his tenure as Premier resulted in a NT$280 million payout to suppliers, to be absorbed by taxpayers. Despite efforts to replace traditional ID cards with digital ones in 2021, security concerns halted implementation, leading to supplier compensation demands exceeding NT$1 billion. After six rounds of mediation, an agreement was reached to limit the payout. The incident has raised questions about accountability as Lai transitions to the presidency.
2024/03/04 16:42
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Taiwan boosts flights to Palau, deepens bilateral ties
Taiwan and Palau strengthen cooperation and tourism opportunities as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Tien Chung-kwang announces increased flights. Democratic Progressive Party legislator Chung Chia-pin hosts establishment meeting for Taiwan and Palau Parliamentary Friendship Association, highlighting diplomatic ties and cooperative relationships in various spheres. Palauan Ambassador to Taiwan David Adams Orrukem emphasizes environmental conservation and climate change as top priorities during the meeting.
2024/03/01 17:20
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President Tsai honors late human rights lawyer Chen Chun-han
President Tsai Ing-wen mourns the passing of lawyer and legislator-at-large candidate Chen Chun-han, praising his dedication to Taiwan and advocacy for the disabled during his funeral in Hsinchu City’s Life Memorial Park.
2024/02/27 15:39
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TPP’s Huang Shan-shan stresses focus on legislative duties
Taiwan People’s Party Legislator Huang Shan-shan emphasizes the importance of legislators focusing on their parliamentary duties, as discussed in a recent news story. Huang’s remarks come after fellow party member Huang Kuo-chang expressed support for her potential candidacy in the Taipei mayoral race. The story also touches on Huang Shan-shan’s views on judicial reform and the responsibilities of legislators in managing their designated districts.
2024/02/26 16:38
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Huang Kuo-chang backs Huang Shan-shan for Taipei mayor race
Legislator Huang Kuo-chang reveals his considerations for Taipei mayor in an exclusive radio interview, hinting at potential mayoral roles in New Taipei City, Taoyuan, or Hsinchu. Party chairman Ko Wen-je’s plans for the 2026 local elections and Huang’s "responsible district" in New Taipei City are also discussed.
2024/02/26 14:15
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Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an wishes Kao Chia-yu election luck
Incumbent Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an wishes former DPP legislator Kao Chia-yu luck in securing a nomination from the DPP. Kao openly reveals her aspirations to compete for the Taipei mayorship in the 2026 elections after failing to secure a legislative seat in 2024.
2024/02/22 12:47
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KMT pushes for urgent food safety report in Legislative Yuan
Kuomintang legislator Wu Tsung-hsien pushes for a special report on food safety at the Legislative Yuan, sparking political tensions among Taiwan’s major parties. Premier Chen Chien-jen’s administration faces scrutiny as cross-party consultations falter, delaying the proposed review. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) expresses concerns over procedural delays and politicization of the issue. Stay tuned for updates on the unfolding legislative drama in Taipei.
2024/02/20 11:27
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Wang Cheng-hsu takes oath as Taiwan’s new legislator
Wang Cheng-hsu, successor to former Legislative Speaker You Si-kun, was sworn in as a legislator in Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, pledging to enhance public health. Wang, a healthcare expert, aims to fulfill President-elect Lai Ching-te’s vision for better health care. His appointment was celebrated by former Legislator Chiu Tai-yuan, who believes Wang’s expertise will benefit Taiwan’s medical community.
2024/02/19 12:33
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Taiwan mourns the loss of inspirational lawyer Chen Chun-han
Renowned human rights lawyer Chen Chun-han, a legislator-at-large from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), passed away at the age of 40 due to complications from a cold. Despite living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Chen earned law doctorates from National Taiwan University, Harvard University, and the University of Michigan. DPP caucus whip Ker Chien-ming and his office are assisting with the funeral arrangements to ensure Chen’s life ends on a fulfilling note. Chen’s passing has left many in shock and mourning, not only for his political role but also for his exceptional contributions as a champion of life in the face of adversity.
2024/02/16 16:37
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TPP Chairman Ko Wen-je calls 2026 election talk premature
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) chairman Ko Wen-je dismisses talk of a blue-white coalition for the 2026 local elections as premature. Speculation suggests that TPP may field eight legislators at-large in the 2026 local government elections. There are rumblings within political circles that TPP’s legislator Huang Shan-shan may run for Taipei mayor, Legislator Huang Kuo-chang for the New Taipei City chief, Legislator Chang Chi-kai for Chiayi City mayor, and Legislator Lin Kuo-cheng for the Pingtung County magistrate race. Ko emphasizes that discussing matters for 2026 is premature in 2024, as there are 22 counties and cities in Taiwan, and the scenario is subject to potential changes. When asked about a possible blue-white collaboration in 2026, Ko deems it too early to discuss.
2024/02/15 12:13
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Taiwan faces potential shift in legislative power dynamics
Taipei Premier Chen Chien-jen stresses the importance of adhering to constitutional regulations in response to the Kuomintang’s (KMT) plans to expand its personnel power. KMT legislator Weng Hsiao-ling suggests that the Legislative Yuan should have the authority to approve personnel and dismiss unqualified leaders. The KMT also proposes the creation of a Special Investigation Division within Parliament. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislators argue that constitutional amendments must be implemented first. Premier Chen emphasizes that Taiwan is a country governed by the constitution, democracy, and the rule of law, and all agencies should follow constitutional guidelines. The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) expresses its willingness to collaborate with other parties in reforming the parliament, potentially bringing significant changes to Taiwan’s legal landscape and political power dynamics.
2024/02/07 18:04
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Exploring Taiwan’s democratic challenges at FICA
Taiwan takes center stage at the 30th Festival International des Cinémas d’Asie (FICA) in Paris as the theme country, showcasing a range of films from the martial law era to the works of new directors. Filmmaker Jean-Robert Thomann, who holds dual citizenship from France and Taiwan, presents his latest documentary, "Taiwan, Chronicle of a Threatened Democracy," in FICA’s documentary competition. The film, shot between 2021 and 2023, delves into the challenges faced by Taiwan’s democratic process, examining major referendums and the Taichung legislator election. Thomann believes Taiwan’s global recognition extends beyond seeking a seat in the United Nations, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary links, cultural and economic exchanges, and soft power rooted in creativity. He hopes his documentary will deepen French audiences’ understanding of Taiwan and inspire further exploration of the country. Thomann highlights that threats to Taiwan are not only external but also internal, with social media manipulation and fake news posing challenges to democracies worldwide. Despite these challenges, Thomann regards Taiwan as a remarkable example of democracy, particularly in Asia, and remains optimistic about the island’s democratic system. "Taiwan, Chronicle of a Threatened Democracy" premiered at FICA and is set to be screened in France, Taiwan, and Sweden.
2024/02/07 14:32
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Han Kuo-yu faces impeachment buzz as new Taiwan Speaker
Han Kuo-yu, the newly-elected Speaker of the Legislative Yuan, is facing challenges as the idea of his possible impeachment trends online. Currently, there are no laws for removing the Speaker without consent from one-third of proposing members and two-thirds agreeing to the recall. Han, being a legislator-at-large, is immune from recall according to the law. Despite criticisms, DPP chairman and President-elect Lai Ching-te congratulated Han and expressed hope for cooperation among different political parties. KMT legislator Chang Chia-Chun commented on the difficulty of accomplishing impeachment in reality.
2024/02/02 15:00
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Legislative speaker salary revealed as Han takes office
Kuomintang (KMT) legislator Han Kuo-yu has been elected as the speaker of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, with Johnny Chiang as his deputy. As speaker, Han is responsible for maintaining order in the legislative body and overseeing legislative matters. According to the "Act Governing the Discipline of Legislators," Han’s monthly salary is equivalent to that of central government department heads, amounting to NT$346,960, with an additional special remuneration of NT$79,100. Johnny Chiang, as deputy speaker, will earn a monthly salary of approximately NT$229,860. Legislators in Taiwan receive an average monthly salary of about NT$190,500, along with an annual bonus equivalent to 1.5 months’ salary. Han’s role grants him decisive power in the event of tied votes or disputes over legislation, giving him a significant role in shaping future policy.
2024/02/02 13:57
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Taiwan parties clash over Legislative Speaker support deals
Taipei - DPP spokesperson Justin Wu clarified that TPP chairman Ko Wen-je had called a DPP senior member in the medical sector to seek support for Huang Shan-shan as Legislative Speaker, pledging unconditional support for the DPP’s Deputy Speaker candidate. This comes in response to the TPP’s claim on Facebook that the DPP planned to support TPP legislator Huang Shan-shan’s bid for Speaker in exchange for supporting DPP legislator Tsai Chi-chang as Deputy Speaker. The TPP stated that they do not engage in favor exchanges with the "New Tide" faction and rejected Ko’s proposal. Wu revealed that Ko had called a senior DPP member, expressing his hope for DPP’s support for Huang Shan-shan as Speaker and for the Deputy Speaker to support the DPP’s candidate unconditionally. Wu emphasized that the DPP group only supports You Si-kun for Speaker and is open to TPP’s recommendation for Deputy Speaker, rejecting Ko’s proposal.
2024/02/02 11:35
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Han Kuo-yu consults predecessor after securing Speaker role
Newly-appointed Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu seeks counsel from his predecessor Wang Jin-pyng, demonstrating respect for traditional decorum and the continuation of Kuomintang’s experience. Han emphasizes that non-violent conduct and police intervention are unnecessary as long as his agenda can be accomplished. Meanwhile, You Si-kun, who failed to secure another term, resigns from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and is praised for his commitment to democracy by Lai Ching-te. Lai reveals that You had declared his determination to secure the position of legislative speaker and, if unsuccessful, would resign as a legislator to cultivate new talent. At a gratitude dinner, Lai encourages his party colleagues to anticipate future competitions and collaborations in the Legislative Yuan and continue making strong efforts to push legislation forward.
2024/02/02 11:33