Top �� Speeches and Statements by Prime Minister

Statement by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi on the Enactment of the Laws on Pension Reform June 5, 2004

Today, the laws on pension reform were enacted at the Diet. In order to create a foundation for the people's sense of security about their old age, stabilizing the pension system through maintaining a balance between the benefits and burdens of pension is an issue that must be dealt immediately for the Government. I therefore perceive the enactment of the laws at this time as a big step towards meeting these demands. Therefore, the Government will make efforts to deepen once again the understanding of the people on this reform and further advance the reform of the pension system, while positioning gaining the people's trust in the system as its top priority. During the proceedings at the Diet, the three parties of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), New Komeito and Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) reached a significant agreement to jointly comprehensively review the entire social security system, including the issue of unifying the pension plans among the ruling and the opposition parties, and bills were revised to this effect accordingly. The Government intends to fully advance the reform of the social security system with the progress of constructive discussions conducted outside the perimeters between the ruling and opposition parties. Seriously taking into account the debate concerning the issue of nonpayment of pension premiums, the Government will advance measures to improve both the system and its management. The Government will also undertake a drastic review on the role of the Social Insurance Agency (SIA) in order to improve public convenience as well as to increase operational efficiency. The social security system, including pension, medical care and nursing care, is an indispensable stronghold for ensuring sense of security in people's daily lives while adapting to the changes in the society and economy. The Government reaffirms its solid resolve to advance the reform together with the people to develop the social security system which will correspond faithfully with the trust given to it by the people. In this, I ask for further the understanding and cooperation of the people.