Prime Minister Naoto Kan held the eighth meeting of the Council for Intensive Discussion on Social Security Reform at the Prime Minister's Office.

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said, "As we now move to the process of consolidating our discussions, I would like to ask that considerations be made around 'the three pillars of reassurance' making up the pillars of social security reform, that is to say, the priority items for ensuring that people feel reassured.
The first pillar is the reinforcement of childrearing support. Among the variety of services for childrearing support, particular emphasis will be placed on in-kind services or childrearing support services. In order to enable all women who want to work to keep working, the childrearing support system will be strengthened and the 'unification of kindergartens and nursery schools' will be achieved.     
The second pillar concerns social security services for temporary workers, namely expanding the social security coverage for temporary workers in the areas of employees' pension and health insurance. This also relates to the disparities issue, and therefore, efforts will be made to expand the coverage while bearing in mind its impact on the employment practices of small- and medium-sized enterprises, among other issues.
The third pillar is the introduction of a 'ceiling system' for costs borne by individuals which cuts across the divisions within the system. As you are aware, some people incur multiple expenses under the medical, nursing, childcare, and disability welfare systems. The system to be introduced will calculate the total expenses and establish a ceiling amount. I believe assistance needs to be provided to those households who face multiple medical, nursing, and other expenses.
Furthermore, when we get to the next stage, I would like to also present priority issues for efficiency and prioritization, which I have called 'the three pillars of efficiency.' Also, within next week, I hope the Council for Intensive Discussion has a draft ready for submission to the Headquarters of the Government and Ruling Parties for Social Security Reform. I ask for your continued efforts as we move to the difficult stages of compiling a final draft."