Mayor Hou Urges Central Government to Clarify Fiscal Allocation for Low Birth Rate Policies
New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih stated that low birth rates are a national security issue requiring central-local cooperation. Regarding the government's new population strategy, Hou criticized the lack of detail on budget allocation, warning against the central government taking credit while offloading financial burdens onto local governments.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: May 28, 2026 at 13:41
- 🔍 Collected: May 31, 2026 at 23:50 (82h 9m after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: June 2, 2026 at 00:48 (24h 57m after Collected)
Central News Agency, New Taipei, May 28. New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih stated today that the low birth rate is a national security issue that the central and local governments must face together to reduce family burdens and provide support. President Lai Ching-te and his administration announced yesterday the 'New Strategy for Taiwan's Population—Family Support,' featuring 18 measures across 5 areas, with an estimated annual budget increase of NT$205 billion, totaling NT$380 billion. After attending a New Taipei City Youth Department event, Hou told reporters that fiscal details must be clear. He noted that the central government has yet to release details, including the allocation ratio between central and local governments under the Fiscal Revenue and Expenditure Act. He urged for fairness, stating, 'Don't let the central government take all the applause while leaving the bill for the local governments.'
FAQ
What is the core of Mayor Hou's criticism?
He is concerned that the central government is taking credit for policies while leaving the financial burden to local governments.