Taipei: Taiwan's decision to ease the rules on hiring migrant domestic workers has sparked varied reactions among stakeholders. Employers and brokers have shown support, viewing the policy change as a positive step towards addressing caregiving needs, while labor and childcare advocates express concerns regarding worker protections.

According to Focus Taiwan, Minister without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung announced on Wednesday that the government will relax existing regulations. Starting April 13, families with at least one child under the age of 12 can apply to hire migrant domestic workers. This policy aims to alleviate the childcare burden. The Executive Yuan approved the measure on Thursday morning.

Employer and broker groups have welcomed the new policy. Heidi Chang, president of the International Association of Family and Employers with Disabilities, described the policy as "long-awaited." She noted in a phone interview with CNA that the revised eligibility criteria address Taiwan's low birth rate and shortage of care labor, which have deterred some families from having children. Similarly, Lu Hsi-an, chairman of the Tainan Employment Service Institute Association, criticized the current rules as too stringent and expressed approval of the changes for better meeting family needs.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang defended the move, arguing that it provides families with another option to balance career and childcare, potentially increasing the birth rate. He emphasized that some women forgo career opportunities to focus on child-rearing.

Despite the support from some quarters, labor and childcare groups have voiced concerns. Wang Chao-ching, convener of the Childcare Policy Alliance, argued that the relaxation might not effectively address the low birth rate. He highlighted the example of Hong Kong, where unrestricted access to migrant domestic workers has not resulted in a higher fertility rate. Wang also referenced a survey from the previous year, indicating that access to these workers might not significantly enhance women's employment in Taiwan.

Yang Shu-wei, secretary-general of the Taiwan Labour Front, warned that the policy could threaten the job stability of approximately 25,000 childcare workers in Taiwan, including babysitters and preschool staff. Yang criticized the measure for potentially exploiting migrant domestic workers by subjecting them to low wages and extended hours. He pointed out that these workers are not covered by the Labor Standards Act, often earn less than the minimum wage, and lack adequate rest protections, with monthly earnings frequently below NT$30,000 (US$938.40) even without days off.