Nature of work doesn’t justify premium wage

WHAT a ridiculous suggestion that refuse collectors should be paid as professionals are (“No increase enough”, June 14)! A few facts to consider: The job requires absolutely no prior training or attributes other than a relatively strong back.

Furthermore that the job is not the most pleasant does not justify premium wages.

People are paid for the skills and education that they bring to the table.

Also they should remember that there is a factor of supply and demand – there are scores out there with their attributes who can do the job and would love to have the chance of a job, any job! Finally, they are not slaves. If the job and its conditions, which were made clear to them when they signed on, do not suit them, they are perfectly free to find one that does!

To those who complained that refuse had not been collected in the townships for three weeks (“Collect township rubbish soon – or else, ANC warns”, June 13), do not suppose that it is any better in the suburbs.

Our refuse has not been collected for three weeks either.

They are not being discriminated against!