When the government changes hands after the inauguration of President-elect Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) on May 20, NT$600 million in taxpayer money may go toward severance payments for outgoing political appointees and elected officials, a recent report said.
A report issued by the Central Personnel Administration (人事行政局) said the upcoming transfer of power will lead to a large number of public officials applying for redundancy compensation.
Citing Premier Vincent Siew (蕭萬長) as an example, with his 34 years of official public service, he will be eligible for more than NT$10 million if he applies for all his compensation at one time.
However, Siew has reportedly decided to request the payment on a monthly basis, which would entitle him to approximately NT$120,000 per month.
Another example cited was Vice Premier Liu Chao-shiuan (劉兆玄), who has been a public servant since 1971. His 29 years of service will allow him to receive a severance package of around NT$6 million.
In addition, Vice President Lien Chan (連戰) will be eligible for approximately NT$16 million if he applies for his pension at one time.
Furthermore, all outgoing Taiwan presidents enjoy a special package designed to see them comfortably through their retirement.
According to regulations, President Lee Teng-hui (李登輝) will receive a monthly payment of NT$820,000 for the remainder of his life.
Ninety-six political appointees have so far reportedly submitted applications for their severance packages.
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