Taipei: The Control Yuan, Taiwan's top government watchdog, has issued a censure against the Fisheries Agency (FA) for its ineffective role in assisting local governments to evacuate fishing crew members during typhoons that hit Taiwan from July to October last year.
According to Focus Taiwan, the investigation by Control Yuan members Chi Hui-jung and Wang Yu-ling revealed that numerous fishing crew members stayed aboard their vessels during Typhoons Gaemi, Krathon, and Kong-rey, despite evacuation orders. These orders mandated that all fishing vessels under 100 metric tonnes evacuate their crews to safety.
The investigation highlighted that 15 out of 19 cities and counties with fishing ports had issued such evacuation orders. However, some fishermen only briefly came ashore for a roll call before being instructed by their employers to return to their ships. This violation of the Disaster Prevention and Protection Act could result in fines ranging from NT$50,000 (US$1,676.50) to NT$250,000.
The Control Yuan criticized the FA for its passive approach and lack of assistance in enforcing evacuation orders, accusing it of shifting responsibility onto local authorities. This was deemed a significant oversight in the agency's administration.
The investigation noted that the FA had previously convened a meeting in 2018 to discuss evacuation criteria during typhoons. Yet, despite worsening weather conditions, the agency failed to update these standards and considered abolishing them, reflecting an indifferent stance.
The Control Yuan urged the FA to support local governments in creating clear evacuation standards tailored to each port's characteristics to ensure fishermen's safety. Reports received by CNA indicated that some migrant fishermen were forced to stay aboard during Typhoon Krathon in October 2024 to safeguard the vessels.
The ombudswomen suggested that local governments improve port stability and develop scientifically-based rules on when crew members might stay on ships to guard them. They cited New Taipei's progress as a potential model for other areas.
In response, the FA committed to introspection and consulting with relevant agencies to ensure appropriate measures are taken during typhoons. It also plans to encourage local governments to review and adjust evacuation standards for fishing crews.