Jeon Hae-cheol: "If the budget allows, providing disaster relief funds to all citizens is the right approach"

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[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Jeon Hae-cheol, Minister of the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, stated that if the financial conditions permit, it is appropriate to provide disaster relief funds to all citizens.

On the 6th, Minister Jeon said at a New Year's press conference held at the Government Seoul Office, "If the financial conditions allow, I believe it is right to provide support like the nationwide emergency disaster relief fund implemented in 2020," adding, "The administrative procedures for actual payment were much faster when 100% of the population was paid."

He emphasized that disaster relief funds should be distributed quickly to stimulate consumption and revitalize the economy. He explained, "Since COVID-19 affected all citizens, comparing 2020 and last year, the 2020 case is better," and added, "Last year, selective payments were made, and some local governments provided additional support, which was embarrassing as a central government agency."

In this regard, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety has launched a research project to analyze the effects of the support funds. The results of the research project are expected to be released in April. Minister Jeon said, "If it is selective support, it is right to prioritize those who are experiencing difficulties," and added, "If we cannot satisfy everyone sufficiently, we should prioritize support for those who have suffered actual damage."

Regarding errors in the quarantine pass, he expressed regret to the public and stated that a significant portion of the errors has been corrected. The quarantine pass errors occurred again this month following their mandatory implementation in December last year. Minister Jeon explained, "We formed a task force (TF) team to overcome the problems," and said, "Although the volume was more than could be handled per second, causing confusion, we have made considerable improvements."

Concerning the immediate appeal following the recent court decision to suspend the enforcement of the quarantine pass, he said the decision was made because there is additional evidence to be submitted. He explained, "It is not because we do not respect the court ruling, but because the quarantine authorities have several pieces of evidence under consideration to present," and added, "Considering the difficulty in coping with a medical system collapse if confirmed cases surge, we made this decision and will strive to minimize inconvenience to the public."

Meanwhile, regarding the so-called 'complete removal of prosecution's investigative authority' (Geomsu Wanbak), he said it is premature to abolish all investigative powers of the prosecution immediately. He emphasized, "It has been a year since the adjustment of investigative authority between the police and prosecution, and overall, the system is settling," adding, "Since it was made with difficulty, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) must be firmly supported and backed, and it is not right to change what has already started."

Regarding the police having the authority to conclude primary investigations except for six major crimes, he evaluated that the police are developing responsibility and capability. Minister Jeon said, "The police are gradually improving their investigative capabilities and legal knowledge in preparation for trials," and added, "The police must be fully prepared and enhance their capabilities for security investigations previously handled by the National Intelligence Service."

He also assessed that it will take time for the public to feel the effects of the autonomous police system implemented since July last year. He explained, "For various reasons, the autonomous police adopted a unified system as part of the national police," and said, "Due to rapid changes, it is difficult for the public to feel the effects. Since the biggest feature of the autonomous police is the combination of public safety administration and autonomous administration, its effects are gradually appearing."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.