Mayor’s Remarks:
1. Counting down from today (Dec. 15), there are only 16 days left before 2020 comes to an end. Due to the coronavirus outbreak beginning early this year, Taiwan’s border was closed, and we have seen nearly no international exchange and only few visitors entering or leaving the country throughout the year. This situation will continue in 2021, and we should stay alert and remain cautious.
2. Recently, the air quality has been poor because of pollutants brought overseas by the northeasterly winds. I urge citizens to pay close attention to the air quality index and warnings. Maintaining air quality is our responsibility and obligation. Any incident involving the burning of straw or weeds should be handled strictly by concerned bureaus. Tainan, the religious center of Taiwan, has countless temple activities. To prevent public disaffection, the Fire Department, Police Department, Public Health Bureau, Environmental Protection Bureau, and other bureaus should send officials to the organizing temples prior to any event to explain relevant regulations.
3. My deepest condolences to the passing of Senior Executive Officer Chung of the Public Works Bureau. Mr. Chung passed away two days ago after suffering an ischemic stroke. All colleagues should take care of their health in order to continue devoting their efforts to themselves, their family, and citizens.
4. The Agriculture Bureau should ramp up marketing and promotional activities for oranges and other produce. All bureaus and departments should assist with this task.
Announcements
1. The Bureau of Civil Affairs’ presentation on 2020 Annual Report (refer to written sources for details)
Decision: Approved for reference filing
Mayor’s Remarks:
I appreciate the efforts that Director-general Yen and members of the bureau have put into civil affairs, religion, infrastructure, funerals, and ceremonies. Civil affairs are rather complicated, but closely related to residents’ daily lives. Since the promotion of the electronic elegiac couplet, we have gradually seen a shift in funerary customs. Please keep up the good work.
2. The Department of Information and International Relations’ report on the 2021 Tainan City Christmas and New Year Series Activities (refer to written sources for details)
Decision: Approved for reference filing
Mayor’s Remarks:
In the past, three separate celebration events were held for Christmas and New Year at the same spot. Now, this series of events are spread across various districts in Tainan City, and are no longer the responsibility of single bureau. Traffic control, order maintenance, and disease prevention all require collaboration between concerned bureaus. In addition, coronavirus prevention measures have become even more important since the start of fall and winter. Crowds will gather at venues, and prevention work needs to be carried out strictly. Volunteers and staff members should make sure that only people who follow the rules are allowed to enter the venue. Concerned bureaus should have plans in advance to ensure a safe, joyful holiday season.