THERE has been much ado about the announcement by the National Union of Mineworkers that the 2010 constructionworkers it represents intend striking over salaries.

THERE has been much ado about the announcement by the National Union of Mineworkers that the 2010 constructionworkers it represents intend striking over salaries.

I was disgusted at the opinions of Mohammed from Pretoria,who called Radio 702 last week in response to this announcement and had this to say: "These people should be thankful that because of the 2010 World Cup they have jobs.

"Otherwise they would still be sitting in their shacks getting drunk and stealing. Let them just accept the 10 percent they are being offered and complete the stadiums."

Let me remind Mohammed that the majority of these workers are black, which is why I take more offence to his remarks.

Does Mohammed have any idea how much these workers are being paid?

Does he know the working conditions they endure?

Neither do I, which is why I will not be judgmental of them.

Does he bother to wonder why these workers still live miserably in shacks or is it the usual case of "let the poor slave on in the darkness" while the principals of the construction companies involved rake in billions in profits?

Our friend Mohammed further stated that he, however, believes that doctors are right to strike because they are paid little and their skills are not dispensable.

Another reminder Mohammed, the doctors' strike has always been illegal, whereas the 2010 workers are securing a right to strike legally.

Be aware that a 2010 construction worker is more likely to go to bed hungry than a doctor.

Eddie Gaffane, Midrand