86
Social Development and Improvements in Social Equity
compulsory for all establishments employing more than 5 workers, as com- pared with the present practice whereby only establishments with more than 16 employees are obliged to participate. By 1981, the number of participants will reach 2.6 million and the insurance coverage will be further extended.
2.2 Expansion of Public Assistance
For those eligible under the current Public Assistance Program the following additional assistance will be provided:
2.3
(1) Benefits provided under the Program will be gradually increased to
a level roughly equivalent to the minimum cost of living.
(2) A growing number of medically indigent persons will receive medical care services under the newly enforced medical aid program, financed partly by government grants and partly by long-term zero-interest loans.
(3) Means of self-help will be provided to poor persons who are
physically able, by providing vocational training and jobs. Expansion of National Relief Support
During the Plan period, the level of benefit payments under the Veterans' Relief Program will be increased so that their total monthly income, the sum of their earned income plus transfer income, equals the monthly income of average urban households. Attempts will be made to help increase the earned-income portion.
2.4
Reinforcement of Social Welfare Services
(1) In the field of juvenile welfare, nine counseling centers and addi- tional facilities for disabled children will be established. Vocational training and guidance programs for youth will be strengthened. (2) In the field of women's welfare, facilities such as women's special schools, women's houses, and women's counseling centers will be expanded. Vocational training and guidance programs will be intensified.
(3) In the field of senior citizens' welfare, five old-age welfare centers will be established, and close relationships between these centers and with private firms will be ensured.
(4) For disabled persons, legislative measures providing income security will be adopted. Construction of rehabilitation facilities for those who are permanently disabled will be gradually expanded.