45 workmen in Dubai have been sentenced to 6 months in prison followed by deportation for violently protesting for better working conditions and a pay rise.
The protests happened in late 2007, the workers damaged police vehicles and public property and were violent, it was suggested in newspaper reports last year that there were a lot more than 45 workers invloved in the protest- a protest/strike is forbidden under UAE law.
On the one hand we are greatful that such violent demonstrations are dealt with in the strictest manner. There are discussions going on as to how best to introduce a minimum wage for construction workers, which has caused concern amongst the construction companies as to how on earth they would manage to afford the increments.
I wonder why the workers felt they had to go to such extreme measures. They now face 6 months is prison and then the prospect of returning to their respective countries empty handed.
If you would like to contribute something to those workers who are earning far less than you or I then check out www.helpinghands.ae
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