Premier Lin Chuan has called for an investigation into problems that have hit the sea link between Taiwan and the outlying Matsu Islands.
Last year, a passenger ferry called the Taima Star entered service on the route between the islands and Taiwan. The ship was commissioned by the government and built at a cost of NT$1.4 billion (US$45 million).
However, since entering service, it has broken down more than 20 times and has been taken out of service for more than three months for inspections and repairs. The ship’s frequent problems have also come to the attention of the Control Yuan, the government’s chief watchdog.
During a trip to the Matsu Islands on Saturday, Premier Lin Chuan called for the transportation ministry to investigate the ship’s problems. Lin also said he hopes the government will set aside funding needed to maintain the other ship connecting the islands with Taiwan.
Meanwhile, Lin called for overall review of the Matsu Island’s transport links. He said that there have been a number of plans to improve air links with Taiwan, but that these have not yet produced results.