The Control Yuan has issued a censure against the Ministry of Labor and the
New Taipei City Government after discovering that 64 foreign fishermen were
forced into unpaid leave following last year's squid fishing season.

Employers and brokers reportedly circumvented labor laws by using "mutual
agreement to terminate contracts," leaving the fishermen without the job
security their contracts promised.

An investigation found that these workers endured poor living conditions,
were charged daily fees for lodging and meals, and had their passports
withheld by brokers.

Control Yuan member Ji Hui-rong (紀惠容) criticized the labor ministry and
local authorities for failing to detect these violations and provide timely
assistance, noting that this negligence has harmed Taiwan's reputation on
labor rights.

The government is urged to take responsibility for proper placement and
support of migrant workers, ensuring their rights are protected.

(PB)