Premier Mao Chi-kuo says the government will set up a foundation to help take care of the long-term needs of the victims of last week’s explosion in New Taipei City.
Some 500 people were injured during a party at a water park when colored powder that was sprayed on partygoers exploded and burst into flames. The powder was made of cornstarch, which is flammable.
As of Thursday, a second person has died. Another 400 people are still in hospital, including more than 250 people in intensive care.
Premier Mao spoke on Thursday about the government’s response to the disaster. He said the priority was on medical care, regardless of the cost. He also said that the government would provide long-term care and rehabilitation on a case-by-case basis, and that a foundation would provide for the needs of the victims.
“We are planning to set up a foundation to bring together the local governments and the private sector to provide the victims with long-term care," siad Mao.
"We want the families of the victims to rest assured that we will accompany them through this difficult time. As for how this foundation will be set up, we know that a lot of people have made good recommendations, and we welcome people to continue offering suggestions as there is still a little time left in the planning stage.”
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Mao said that the ad hoc committee that’s handling the aftermath of the disaster has been upgraded and will be headed by Vice Premier Simon Chang. The vice conveners will include the health minister, a representative from New Taipei City, and a minister without portfolio.
Mao said the government is also working to determine who is responsible for the accident, and to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.