Mayor Hou Urges Central Government to Clarify Fiscal Allocation for Low Birth Rate Policies

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.'