Mayor’s Remarks:
1. All bureaus should keep a close eye on recent developments in the pandemic. We must not let our guard down. Many cases in other countries indicate that despite having a high percentage of the population that has received two vaccinations, the new Omicron variant has led to breakthrough infections. Some countries, such as Japan, have entered a complete lockdown to prevent the new variant from entering its borders. Therefore, we must remain vigilant and follow the instructions of the CECC. I urge the public to mask up and follow pandemic prevention protocols.
2. There have been major changes in the weather recently. As many events are scheduled to take place in December, I ask all colleagues to take the weather into consideration when organizing events.
3. Water conservation is as important as pandemic prevention. Although our water resources are not as strained as last year, the water level at Zengwun Reservoir has already dropped below 70%. Thus, we must make plans ahead of time. I urge the public to conserve water. The Agriculture Bureau should also promote measures for conserving irrigation water and collaborate with the Central Government to promote the growth of drought-tolerant crops or the introduction of smart irrigation systems. Water is a precious resource. Although Taiwan has significant rainfall, precipitation is often concentrated, and heavy rainfall tends to happen in a short window of time. As a result, we are faced with water shortages. All bureaus should prepare for this issue as soon as possible and employ corresponding measures. We are now in the dry season, so we must use current water reserves with caution until next year’s flood season arrives.
4. I ask Secretary-General Fang and heads of department to work closely with the Bureau of Economic Development; thereby ensuring that the bureau’s projects are completed ahead of schedule and in accordance with quality standards. The Bureau of Economic Development and Environmental Protection Bureau should assign designated personnel to complete amendments and discussions related to environmental impact assessments.