Garbage collectors come from countries that are considered fourth world — meaning very poor. Most people in those countries normally live below what is considered the poverty line.
Garbage collectors consider money promised to them by the contracting company good pay considering the conditions in which they live.
When they come here, however, they discover to their surprise that the good pay they had been promised suddenly and inexplicably becomes a mere $100 a month.
Such a salary is not enough for them to live in this country even if, and this is a very big if, they get paid on time every month. Usually of course, they are not paid on time every month.
It is not unusual for their salaries to be months in arrears. They see their situation as one in which the company deceived them.
Whatever the situation, they are forced to seek other jobs in order to exist.
Some of them are begging at traffic lights or even working in either private or government institutions.
They are forced into this by the shortcomings and deceit of the companies which brought them here.
What we must do is increase awareness about living conditions in the Kingdom before these people arrive here. They should be aware of the amount of money needed in order to live and send money to their families.
Companies which employ them must not only raise salaries but also pay salaries on time. By doing this, the employees will not be obliged to beg in order to live.
Officials must look at the plight of these garbage collectors and make sure that they are treated in a humanitarian way. The most important thing is that they be paid on time and treated fairly.
Arab News From the Local Press 14 January 2003
