Letters: November 5, 2009

Always an inspiration
I would like to congratulate all pupils of The Westminster School in Dubai for raising funds for a breast cancer support group ("Community Report: School campaign aids breast cancer awareness", Gulf News, October 31). Children are always an inspiration. Their awareness and participation in workshops and campaigns on issues concerning our environment — global warming and conservation of natural resources to name a few — is highly commendable. Children's efforts serve a reminder for all of us to be more responsible. We must learn from them. Let's contribute toward making this planet greener and healthier.
From Ms Archana Jayathirtha
Dubai
 

Much needed good news
I want a positive headline because I believe it has the power to make our world a much better and happier place. I realize that when a lot of people singularly focus on something, it increases the incidence of it happening. I want a positive headline because I believe the manner in which we project news has an impact on many people, affecting society at large. It is with this conviction, that I make this request. I want a positive headline because negative news is taking a toll on my health and happiness. Additionally, science has proven that positive thoughts have the power to heal and cure. I want a positive headline because I am concerned about
the happiness and well-being of my children, and the world they will grow up in.
Our children are the future, and we need to safeguard both by doing all we can to encourage hope. On my part, I will do what I can to create a better environment, at home or elsewhere. Only by combining our efforts can we truly achieve peace.
From Mr Sridhar Mangu
UAE

No desire to drive
Initially, like all men, I too had a desire to learn driving and acquire a driving licence. However, after weighing the pros and cons, I decided against it. It is true that if you own a car, you don’t have to rely on public transport or request relatives for conveyance. However, the greatest disadvantage of having a car and a driving licence is the problem of finding adequate parking space. To get an empty parking space, in many residential
areas of Dubai, is next to impossible on most days. The very thought of driving back home after battling heavy traffic, with the constant stress of not finding a suitable parking space near your area of residence, is nerve-racking. You have reached home but can’t actually go home, unless you park your car. Unfortunately, installation of paid parking meters has made no significant difference.
From Mr Glen Vitus
Dubai

Not tested or tried
It is frustrating when advertisements convey a message which contradicts the
information provided on their company’s website or on the product itself. There should be a law which prohibits products and services from hiding key negative points. In the same vein, cigarette manufacturers should provide a website link on the packaging which would explain in detail the effects of cancer and heart disease. Financial products like loans, credit cards and insurance are often promoted, with fine print that states the management is not bound by anything mentioned in the advertisement — this should not be allowed. Unlike a car, a pen or a laptop, most financial products cannot
be tested by the end user, before he/she actually commits to it. This calls for a more aggressive consumer protection forum, which could monitor and support end users.
From Mr Jay Krishnan
Dubai