Taiwan Today

Women in Taiwan may soon be able to take up to one year off work before giving birth under an extended maternity-leave plan being considered by the government. “Such a measure will boost the nation’s sustainable development,” said Premier Wu Den-yih at a function marking the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day March 7. “Given that the ROC is among the bottom countries in the world in terms of its birthrate, we have no choice but to come up with pragmatic ideas to remedy this situation.” During the event, Council of Labor Affairs Minister Wang Ju-hsuan called on the women of Taiwan to have more children and said they should take advantage of the government’s new program. According to Wang, if the Cabinet approves the measure, women can take up to 12-months unpaid leave for pregnancy-related purposes beginning June. “Once employees present medical certificates verifying their condition, employers will not be able to turn down their requests for leave,” she said. Some women’s rights groups have expressed concerns that taking pregnancy leave could lead to dismissal, but Wang said workers are protected against pregnancy discrimination under the Gender Equality in Employment Act. “There are penalties for employers who violate the rules,” she said. “The CLA will investigate any alleged violations and punish offenders accordingly.” Following the CLA’s announcement, the Ministry of Civil Service said it plans to follow suit and grant pregnant civil servants unpaid leave. “The CLA initiative is a praiseworthy one that will benefit women and families in Taiwan,” MCS Minister Chang Che-shen said. “In keeping with the principle of equality, the ministry will seek to extend this program to its employees.” (CYH-JSM) (This article originally appeared in the "United Daily News" March 7, 2010.)