Tong Tzu-wei Proposes Doubling Holiday Subsidies for Disabled; Chen Chien-jen Praises

(Central News Agency reporter Wang Chao-yu, Keelung, 7th) DPP Keelung mayoral candidate Tong Tzu-wei today proposed doubling the holiday subsidies for people with disabilities, increasing them to NT$3,000 per holiday. Former Vice President Chen Chien-jen praised Tong for being willing to provide better services for the disadvantaged, calling him a good leader and a political role model.

At the Keelung Social Welfare Expo held today at Fu Jen Sacred Heart High School in Keelung, Chen Chien-jen stated in his speech that a happy city needs a good leader, and Tong Tzu-wei's desire to provide better services for the disadvantaged and people with disabilities is an excellent example. He also noted that nine major social welfare groups are full of love and provide much care for the disadvantaged, reminding him of Jesus Christ's words: "Whoever cares for the least of my brothers and sisters cares for me."

Chen Chien-jen pointed out that Tong Tzu-wei has discussed with many social welfare groups, will listen to their voices in all aspects of city governance, and has performed excellently in the city council. He expressed confidence that with Tong's support, the over 20,000 people with disabilities in Keelung will receive excellent services.

In his speech, Tong Tzu-wei quoted the spirit of the Psalms, emphasizing that defending the disadvantaged is practicing the gospel, and public policy should prioritize those who need help the most. He noted that Keelung has approximately 22,000 people with disabilities, accounting for about 6% of the city's population, higher than the national average. He said these numbers are not a burden or a label, but represent the dignity of citizens and the daily lives of families, and indicate that the city government must respond to needs with more proactive and meticulous policies.

Tong Tzu-wei announced his policy plan on site, stating that if elected mayor, he will double the holiday subsidies for people with disabilities in Keelung City, from the current NT$1,500 per holiday to NT$3,000 per holiday. He added that more comprehensive and systematic policies will be announced at a later date.

Tong said, "Government budgets should not be spent on superficial gimmicks but should be delivered to the citizens who need them most. Increasing the subsidies is a protection of the basic dignity of people with disabilities and a declaration of reforming the social welfare system. I will definitely review the inadequacies of the current system and budgets that need to be revised." (Editor: Chang Ming-kun) 1150607