A welcome initiative
Dear Sir,
It is a good sign that institutions in Qatar are finally waking up to the need for improving the lot of migrant workers. Qatar Foundation’s plans to launch a new welfare initiative aimed at curbing unfair employment practices are welcomed in this context (“QF ‘model’ guarantees rights of workers”, Gulf Times April 24).
Unethical recruitment processes and overcrowded living conditions are the two of the biggest problems facing workers. QF has said that it will pay special attention to these.
But there is a third problem that also needs urgent attention. Some companies fail to pay regular salaries to their workers either because of mismanagement of their resources or financial troubles. Such situations should be tackled and the companies must give proper assurance before recruitment that wages will be paid to workers on time and regularly.
The Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee has also announced a worker’s charter for health and safety during the construction period for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
It indicates that workers’ problems are getting serious attention now.
Rajesh Nair
[email protected]
In praise of cycling
Dear Sir,
This is in reference to the article, “ ‘Get on your bikes’, says paralympian” (Gulf Times April 25). Indeed, cycling is a good exercise. Whenever I am in my hometown, I go out on my 27-year-old cycle. Despite my relatives’ advice, I have not bought a car or a motorbike, thinking that I would use the cycle. I feel that I should continue using the cycle as long as I can for health reasons. A cycle does not add to air pollution also.
Given that cycling is a good exercise, it should be encouraged among children.
Nowadays, cycles are deemed to be for poor people in many nations. Therefore, children belonging to the rich and even middle-class families do not ride bicycles outside their homes even if they have them.
C Robinson
[email protected]
