TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The potential head of the Examination Yuan (考試院) expressed support on Tuesday (Nov. 26) for implementing mental health leave for civil servants, akin to policies in educational institutions. In Taiwan, the Examination Yuan is the competent authority for the legal system governing public sector personnel.
During a Legislative Yuan (立法院) committee review, Chou Hung-hsien (周弘憲), the Examination Yuan president nominee, emphasized the feasibility of this initiative. However, he noted that detailed discussions with relevant agencies are necessary.
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) Legislator Wu Szu-yao (吳思瑤) suggested the introduction of mental health leave to provide civil servants with breathing space. However, the Ministry of Civil Service (銓敘部) opposed the idea, citing concerns over potential impacts on service quality and the risk of stigmatization. Chou acknowledged these challenges but reiterated that the proposal is feasible in principle.
Chou plans to prioritize amending the Civil Service Protection Act (公務人員保障法) and aims to present the revisions in the next legislative session. He clarified that changing leave regulations for civil servants does not require Legislative Yuan approval, allowing for expedited consideration.
Wu also urged the establishment of anti-bullying measures and positive workplace culture initiatives, suggesting that legal amendments would be viable.
Chou admitted that while the Examination Yuan can independently revise the Civil Service Protection Act, establishing specific anti-bullying laws would require collaboration with the Ministry of Labor (勞動部) and involve the Executive Yuan (行政院), making it a more complex endeavor.