Taiwan proposal to revive double pensions for retirees sparks 'fat cat' row

A legislative proposal in Taiwan seeks to repeal a ban on retired military personnel, civil servants, and public school teachers receiving double pensions, a practice widely criticized as "fat cat" compensation. The move, spearheaded by Kuomintang (KMT) legislator Yeh Yu-lan, aims to remove Article 77 of the "Act for Retirement, Separation, and Pension of Public School Teachers" and similar provisions in laws governing military and civil servants.

This proposed amendment has ignited fierce debate, with Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Chen Pei-yu leading the charge against it. Chen pointed out that the "fat cat" clause, which prohibits retired public sector employees from collecting both a pension and a salary from government-funded positions, was originally abolished in 2010, largely through the efforts of the KMT when they held a legislative majority. She further noted that the Tsai Ing-wen administration had strengthened these regulations to apply to all military, civil servants, and teachers.

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The 'fat cat' clause was abolished in 2010, led by KMT legislators, prohibiting retired civil servants from receiving double pensions. I also sarcastically ask Yeh Yu-lan, do you want to explain to the former legislators and the KMT why you are proposing this? Is it just for your own political patronage?

Chen Pei-yu directly challenged Yeh Yu-lan and other KMT legislators supporting the bill, including those who have recently proposed similar amendments. She questioned their motives, suggesting the move might be aimed at political patronage and consolidating support, rather than serving the public interest. Chen specifically called out KMT figures like Hung Hsiu-chu and Ko Wen-je, who were involved in the original 2010 legislation, to condemn the current proposal.

The controversy highlights a significant political rift over public sector compensation and the legacy of "double-dipping." Critics argue that reviving this practice would be a step backward, undermining public trust and potentially exacerbating financial burdens. The proposed repeal is seen by opponents as a "law of evil" and a betrayal of past reform efforts, urging Yeh Yu-lan to withdraw the motion.

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This is absolutely the worst of the worst laws, and I urge Yeh Yu-lan to withdraw the case.