Taiwanese legislator proposes 3 childcare support policies, including legalizing kinship care

Hsu Hsin-ying, a legislator and candidate for New Taipei City mayor, has put forth three key policy proposals to bolster childcare support. Speaking at an event honoring outstanding childcare professionals in Hsinchu County, Hsu emphasized the need for better compensation and job stability for those in the sector.

Her proposals include formally recognizing and supporting kinship care within the legal framework. Hsu pointed out current regulations create blind spots, preventing qualified childcare providers from receiving subsidies when caring for relatives within the third degree of kinship. She argued that "professional qualifications should supersede kinship," and pledged to amend the "Children and Youth Welfare and Rights Protection Act" to eliminate discrimination and ensure professional nannies caring for relatives receive government subsidies.

“

Professional qualifications should supersede kinship.

Furthermore, Hsu stressed the importance of ensuring fair wages and implementing long-term retention mechanisms for childcare workers. She also called for the government to establish a robust employment security system. This includes developing incentive programs for home-based childcare providers and creating plans for flexible respite care, overtime pay, rest periods, and alternative staffing solutions.

Hsu believes that a stable childcare system relies on the dedication of its workforce. She committed to working alongside childcare professionals to create a more secure environment, supporting them as they care for the nation's future generations. The legislator aims to ensure that practitioners have adequate resources and career paths, even amidst industry changes.

“

The government's responsibility is to establish a comprehensive support system.