In June, the Taipei City Government announced a draft amendment to the Taipei City Regulations for Whistleblower Rewards for Violations of Health Management Regulations. The plan involves a massive increase in the reward percentage for citizens who report illegal smoking or tobacco sales, with the measures expected to officially launch as early as September 1, 2016.
💰 Significant Increase in Whistleblower Rewards
Hsu Fang-yuan, Deputy Director of the Health Management Division of the Taipei City Department of Health, stated that the primary changes following the amendment are as follows:
| Reporting Category | Original Reward % | New Reward % | Fine Amount (TWD) | New Reward Range (TWD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking in Smoke-Free Parks | 5% | 30% | 2,000 to 10,000 | 600 to 3,000 |
| Selling Tobacco to Minors (Under 18) | 5% | 50% | 10,000 to 50,000 | 5,000 to 25,000 |
This move aims to encourage citizens to report violations as a deterrent against illegal behavior.
🗣️ Smokers’ Rights Groups Protest Against “Snitching” Culture
Regarding Taipei City’s increase in rewards, Chen Chi-an, Chairperson of the Smokers’ Rights Association, protested at the plaza in front of the Taipei City Hall. He argued:
The public authority of the Taipei City Government should not be built on “snitching” behavior where citizens report one another. It feels like a return to the terrifying era of “reporting spies is everyone’s responsibility.”
He suggested that the Department of Health should establish more outdoor smoking areas rather than infringing on the human rights of smokers. Hsu Fang-yuan responded that the Smokers’ Rights Association’s opinions would be included in the discussion when the draft is submitted to the Legal Affairs Persons Bureau and the City Council meeting.
🍎 Simultaneous Increase in Food Safety Rewards
Additionally, Wang Ming-li, Director of the Food and Drug Division of the Taipei City Department of Health, noted that the draft also increases rewards for citizens reporting violations of the Taipei City Food Safety Autonomy Ordinance. The reward ratio will rise from the original 5%–10% to 20% of the fine, with the goal of maintaining food safety.
Smoking is harmful to your health.