Public construction projects are a key plank in the ROC government’s economic stimulus policies, and no effort is being spared in fast-tracking their implementation, Premier Jiang Yi-huah said Aug. 15.
“All government agencies must continue working to ensure the private sector shares in the economic benefits of these initiatives,” Jiang said. “This is a top policy priority that will promote prosperity and spur job creation.”
The premier’s remarks followed a quarterly briefing on project implementation progress by the Public Construction Commission.
PCC statistics showed that as of the end of June, budget completion rate of projects exceeding NT$100 million (US$3.33 million) was 36.36 percent, up 0.12 of a percentage point from the same period last year. The value of construction disbursements hit NT$132.7 billion.
Between 2009 and June 2013, public and private investments in i-Taiwan 12 projects—a proposal unveiled by President Ma Ying-jeou during his election campaign in 2007—totaled NT$1.53 trillion and NT$750.2 billion, respectively. Overall budget completion rate is close to 94 percent.
Jiang said he had directed relevant government agencies to map out specific measures attracting private funds to major infrastructure projects.
As part of this undertaking, the Financial Supervisory Commission and Ministry of Finance are working on policies allowing insurance carriers to invest in such programs.
The premier said the two agencies are planning investment models for the sector. “Other ministries should also take the special needs of the sector into consideration when it comes to project financial planning.”
In response to concerns over the commitment of insurance carriers to long-term care services, Jiang said Minister without Portfolio Joyce Yen Feng will help improve communication among the Ministry of Health and Welfare, FSC, scholars and the private sector.
Jiang also directed the MOHW to consult independent experts and service providers with proven track records in policy planning. (SFC-JSM)
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