President Chen Shui-bian (
There is only one water pipeline at present to the islet called Hsiaoliuchiu, off Pingtung County. The new pipeline could begin construction as early as next year, Chen said.
He noted that the first undersea water pipeline between Ping-tung County and Liuchiu township is 30-years old, and whenever it requires annual repair and maintenance the residents suffer a great deal of inconvenience.
He made the remarks while presiding over the inaugural journey of the second government-run ferry at Liuchiu's Tafu fishing port.
Chen, accompanied by Ping-tung Commissioner Su Chia-chuan (
Chen said that when he visited Liuchiu three years ago, he learned that another government-run ferry was needed between the township and Pingtung County.
He said that after the persis-tent efforts of the central and local governments, the appropriation of more than NT$80 million (US$2.35 million) and more than seven months of construction, he was happy to be able to have delivered on his promise.
"The government attaches great importance to the transportation infrastructure of Taiwan's outlying islands," Chen said.
He said he has instructed the Cabinet to plan construction projects for outlying islands between this year and 2006, and that the improvement of the supply of potable water in Liuchiu and the development of local tourism are part of that project.
He also said that a project to develop a sea park at Hsiaoliuchiu is proceeding smoothly, and that he hopes that fishermen can upgrade the value of fishery products with the guidance and assistance of the government to better fishermen's lives.
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