With regards to your report, More than 100 killed on Dubai roads in eight months (November 1), road safety continues to be an issue that plagues local motorways and is a major challenge for the country. There is no other way to say it other than this country has to address this problem as soon as possible because it is getting worse.
One way of solving the problem is to better educate lorry drivers, especially those who come from parts of the world that have a radically different road safety culture. Another solution to this problem could be upgrading lorry fleets with newer vehicles.
This decision will have to be left to employers but it would certainly help the problem of safety on the roads.
Kari-Pekka Lankinen, Germany
People need to be less selfish on the roads. Many people are so worried about how quickly they can reach their destination that they don't take into consideration the safety of everyone around them.
When you add in the fact that too many people also use their smartphones while driving, it is a dangerous situation.
Patricia Cooksey, Abu Dhabi
ANC targeted civilians too
In relation to Joseph Dana's opinion piece (South Africa should look to its past to help Palestine, November 2), I would like to point out that the armed wing of the ANC targeted civilians with the bombing of bars, restaurants and churches.
This fact shouldn't be ignored.
Steve O'Brien, Dubai
A helping hand for alcoholics
After reading your editorial (Alcoholics need support, October 31), I think that some additional points should be noted. Of course, easy access to alcohol doesn't help the problem of alcoholism. I believe stricter rules on alcohol consumption should be implemented in this country.
Additionally, more education about the dangers of alcohol is needed for our young people. We must teach them that drinking is not all fun and games – alcohol abuse can destroy families.
Finally, opening centres where people can safely access treatment for alcohol abuse without the fear of prosecution would help those who are already struggling with the problem.
Jean Francoise Ng Lewis, Dubai
Parents have to teach their children that they can enjoy life without alcohol. This should be one of the first priorities for any parent.
Name withheld request
Going overseas for alcohol abuse treatment happens for expatriates more often than we know because alcohol carries a negative social connotation locally.
Like other addictions, alcoholism can only be defeated if more light is shed on it. We need places in the UAE to help those affected by this disease.
Valeric Stanciu-Crainic, Al Ain
Banning won’t solve the problem because people will always find a way to source alcohol. The answer is in education.
Name withheld request
Air safety has to be top priority
I don't believe we need to worry about the plane crash in Sinai (UAE airlines reroute flights around Sinai after jet crash, November 1).
Contrary to reports, ISIL doesn’t have the ability to shoot down a jet airliner flying at cruising altitude. The authorities will implement some temporary safety measures while they determine the real cause of the crash, which I believe is likely to be from a technical problem.
Keep in mind that many international airlines still fly over Iraq and some fly over Syria.
Nasser Galal Loutfi-Osman, Egypt
I am happy to know that safety is the top priority for Emirates and Etihad Airways. This is the most important aspect of flying after all.
Kumar Vel, Dubai
Capitalism relies on inducing envy
Concerning Justin Thomas's latest opinion piece, How envy is reaching epidemic proportions in the internet age (November 2), it is important to remember that this kind of internet envy is one of the key drivers of capitalism.
It convinces people of the need to work hard to make money to buy the things they think will make them happy.
In reality, this kind of happiness is short lived and more money is soon required to buy more things for a little hit of happiness.
Jeffrey Martin, Dubai
