Happier employees
I believe the introduction of nurseries in the workplace is a great initiative for working mothers ("Nursery windfall for working mums", Gulf News, October 9). Additionally, it would be even better if companies with more than 10 females employees were instructed to provide nurseries or daycare facilities at the workplace. With traffic and the long commute, it has become almost impossible to spend time with our young ones. Moreover, I think fathers should be entitled to have a week off once the baby is born. Female employees would definitely be happier and much more comfortable when working, if their babies and children were well looked after. I believe daycare is the best investment a company can make for its female employees.
From Ms Silvana Rozas
UAE
Stress busters
When children develop behavioural problems, the blame almost always falls on the parents - especially mothers - for a failed upbringing. In many cases, mothers have to forego their jobs and careers to bring up a child. However, financial constraints often force mothers to work and leave their newborns in the care of unskilled, incompetent caretakers. Nurseries at the workplace come as a blessing to mothers, as they cater to the needs of both the child and the parent. Occasional visits to the daycare centre would help form stronger bonds between mother and child, and stress would reduce considerably.
From Mr Adil Sulaiman
Dubai
Our own measure
Gulf News's column on the true value of success was an eye-opener ("The true measure of success", Gulf News, October 8). Nowadays, many people fish for compliments, especially those who consider only popularity and huge bank balances to gauge one's level of accomplishment. Unfortunately, relationships are mainly based on whether we are of any advantage to each other. But money and material possessions do not bring real happiness into one's life. Once humility and peace of mind disappear from our hearts, it results in a 'don't care' attitude - even towards our dear ones. In the end, it is not up to others to rate our achievements. We must be content with our own lives.
From Ms K. M. Mathew
Ras Al Khaimah
Free Sammy
As a grade 9 pupil, I was very upset when I read about Sammy the Shark ("Please release me, let me go, sings Sammy", Gulf News, October 11). Whale sharks are known to be a threatened species and are considered to be similar to whales, in that they are not violent. Sammy, particularly, has not harmed anyone. So why is this innocent creature being held captive? I urge the hotel authorities to release Sammy as soon as possible.
From Mr Shawn Thomas
Dubai
Right time
The explanation offered by the hotel, currently "housing" Sammy the Shark, is ridiculous. Sammy is being held captive so as to attract more tourists. If no clear laws on the matter exist, then this is the right time to do it. Let us be obsessed with business - to the extent that we begin acting like irresponsible inhabitants of the world.
From Mr Abhijit B.
UAE
Full name withheld by request
Linked cities
It is high time the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) considered extending the Dubai Metro line, at least up to Ajman. I urge the authorities to begin this construction as soon as possible. If such development was made possible, and the Metro was linked to major cities in the UAE, it would be advantageous for many residents. Additionally, if a railway line also linked cities such as Ajman and Sharjah to Dubai, it would certainly free up roads that are otherwise congested during rush hours.
From Mr Alex Eapen
Sharjah
New driver
I read Ms Ruth Daniel's letter to Gulf News, wherein she proposed 'P' or probation plates for new drivers ("A safe reminder", Gulf News, October 9). This reminded me of an innovative idea we had, when my wife acquired a driving licence and a new car. We put up a note on the rear windshield of the car, with the words: "Hi, I am a new driver". The sign had two smiley faces on it, and was accompanied by a stuffed teddy bear. Strangely enough, we never got honked at or had a problem with motorists flashing their headlights at us. I hope other new drivers adopt this system as well.
From Mr Dhruv Saxena
Sharjah
Risking for profit
The reactions from investors were not surprising ("Collateral damage", Gulf News, October 9). Risk and return always work together and anyone investing in a volatile market should be prepared to face losses. If middle-class investors have invested all their money in the share market, it is as if they have put all their eggs in one basket, and are hoping that all of them would hatch. Having a balanced portfolio is the basic principle, when it comes to making an investment.
From Mr K. Anand
Sharjah
Full name withheld on request
The choice to risk
One can officially win or lose when playing the stock market ("Markets bomb despite Central Banks' action", Gulf News, October 11). However, it is common to see people in the above average or high-income group, investing in stocks. As a result, high investors are usually those who have made high profits in the past. I feel stocks are not the true image of assets. As a young investor, I have realised that the damage is irreparable. My advice to investors everywhere is - listen to your financial consultants, but always have the last say.
From Mr Tapan Biswas
UAE
Stuck in between
As a resident of Sharjah, I used to pay exactly half of my current monthly rent when I first came to the UAE seven years ago (“Rising rents force people to live illegally in capital”, Gulf News, September 18). With two daughters who go to school, I have observed that even the education fees have increased steeply. For this reason, I am now forced to share a villa with another family. The authorities should look into the rent issue and find a suitable solution as soon as possible.
From A Reader
Dubai
Name withheld by request
Another Salik
The Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) main objective was for Shaikh Zayed Road and Al Maktoum Bridge to be less congested, and they have achieved it (“Problems persist on Dubai roads”, Gulf News, September 18). However, what is being done about the chaotic traffic situation on alternative routes? It seems that the RTA is planning on handling this with the third phase of Salik tollgates.
From A Reader
Dubai
Name withheld by request
Skilled captain
I placed my bet on Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni for the one-day internationals (ODI) Cricketer of the Year Award (“Dhoni wants to be best on and off the field”, Gulf News, September 8). This is because of the way he has single-handedly transformed the Indian cricket team. Because of him, India had a real chance of competing against and potentially beating Australia and Sri Lanka. Additionally, they were a force to be reckoned with in the Twenty20 Super Series. Things have changed since Dhoni arrived on the scene. He inspired many young, talented players, who were able to perform well for their team.
From Mr Pramod Punnoose
UAE
Complete knowledge
As an experienced teacher, I strongly recommend that a proper training program be implemented in schools to develop the language skills of pupils. Additionally, a platform must be given to pupils so that they are able to make full use of it. Otherwise, even after they are finished with their studies, pupils may get confused and miss out on rare opportunities in their future careers.
From Ms Smitha Manoj
UAE
Defend to win
I do believe that British boxer Amir Khan still has a chance to be the world lightweight champion (“I’ll be world champion, says Khan”, Gulf News, October 5). I remember Khan saying that he is confident in defeating boxing champion Manny Pacquiao. However, I think in order to achieve this, he must first improve his defending skills. By learning from his mistakes, Khan would become a world champion.
From A Reader
Abu Dhabi
Name withheld by request
No more blasts
It is a shame what the serial blasts did to India’s capital ("Serial blasts in New Delhi claim many lives", Gulf News, September 13). The terrorist group that took responsibility should be questioned why and how they could destroy their own people. What do such people get by claiming the lives of so many innocent civilians? Natural calamities take away enough lives in this world. If you cannot do any good, then it is best that you do not do any harm either.
From Ms Aisu S.
Dubai
Double tragedy
It is a double tragedy that after nine years of dictatorial military rule in Pakistan, the new president is being tainted with the title of ‘Mr Ten per cent’ (“A question of trust in Pakistan”, Gulf News, September 29). I invite academicians and scholars of history and management to conduct research and find out just how someone who does not even hold a college degree, climbed the ladder of power to become a president. Nevertheless, I give Asif Ali Zardari, the benefit of doubt. Without pondering much about his past, I hope for his success in uplifting the plight of ordinary, hapless and helpless countrymen and women.
From Mr Aamir A. Salaria
Missouri, USA
Traffic chaos
The traffic situation seems to be worsening every day and I think a better road network is required. In certain locations, four roads merge into two and some intersections are always crowded, no matter what time of the day it is. These traffic congestions occur every single day, and I urge the authorities to look into the matter so that the issue can be resolved.
From Mr Harshal Sheth
Dubai
English proficiency
This is in reference to the report on students not gaining the required language proficiency (“Can your English skills take the test?”, Gulf News, September 19). The report was shocking and discouraging. If a survey were conducted, the results would state that the local students are doing extremely well in private schools. Closing one’s eyes does not mean it is dark outside. Maximum exposure to English language and using it correctly both inside and outside a classroom can help our children greatly. Additionally, I think we could expect better results if native English speakers were appointed to teach English as a second language.
From Mr Rajesh Joseph
UAE
