Decision Considering Integrated Support Measures for Socially Vulnerable Groups... "Ministry of Health and Welfare to Promote Integration"
[Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan] On the 7th, the Presidential Office stated that the government reorganization plan, centered on the 'abolition of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family,' is "set to functionally strengthen in line with changing times." It also refuted criticisms raised by some, explaining that the plan is a measure to more effectively promote policy linkage from a life-cycle perspective, integrated support policies for socially vulnerable groups, and the establishment of a promotion system.
Senior Secretary for Social Affairs Ahn Sang-hoon said at the Yongsan Presidential Office on the morning of the same day, "Even if a ministry is abolished, the functions it previously handled are absolutely not eliminated."
First, Senior Secretary Ahn emphasized, "In the Ministry of Health and Welfare, childcare, care services, population, family policies, and child and youth policies will be promoted more integrally and effectively within one ministry," adding, "Linkage with low birthrate and aging policies will also be strengthened, expecting a synergy effect in life-cycle policies for the public and vulnerable groups." He also predicted, "Support projects for women with career interruptions and other women’s employment support tasks will see greatly enhanced effectiveness through linkage with employment support systems and employment infrastructure under the Ministry of Employment and Labor."
He continued, "We have comprehensively reflected opinions from stakeholders, experts, and related ministries in this government reorganization plan," and added, "We will also ensure sufficient communication during the National Assembly’s discussion process."
Regarding the position of Minister Kim Hyun-sook of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, he explained, "When a ministry is abolished, its minister steps down, and if the reorganization plan remains as is, a new appointment will be made at the rank between minister and vice minister." He also stated, "Employees of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family will be reassigned to the Ministry of Health and Welfare or the Ministry of Employment and Labor," adding, "Overall, the related departments will expand and their functions will be strengthened."
Meanwhile, President Yoon said on his way to work that morning, "The abolition of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family is to further strengthen protection for women, families, children, and socially vulnerable groups," and added, "We aim to completely break away from the perspective of the victim complainant regarding sexual misconduct issues caused by abuse of power, and to further enhance protection for women."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
