• Anonymous writes:
Responding to the letter with headline About beggars in town … it’s not fun, it’s humiliating both online and in print the following.
The responsibility to care for those with insufficient means and the homeless is firstly that of the government, social and welfare societies, as well as churches – not that of motorists who are burdened by high fuel prices, licence and toll fees!
To give money to beggars, some of whom are obviously drug addicts, does them more harm than good!
Also read: LETTER: Beggars are bugging me
SASSA is currently paying 20 million social grants monthly and are processing a further 10 million applications. They are doing very well and should be applauded!
Most churches have soup kitchens, and hand out clothing and groceries to the needy. There are also several homes for the homeless where they are fed and can sleep overnight for free or at a nominal cost. Applause to them! Registered welfare organisations can even get grants from the Lotto to help the needy.
Beggars should not be allowed at busy street intersections as it is not safe and legal. They can be knocked over by cars with serious injuries to themselves and costly legal consequences for motorists. Some beggars stand on the white line in between two lanes whilst motor vehicles are speeding by when the traffic lights are green for them.
That is why the Chief Traffic Officer has been requested to respond why beggars are allowed on busy street intersections. The same principle applies to street vendors.
I doubt whether he will find any exemption for contravening the Traffic Regulations based on social grounds, or turning a blind eye to those who do.
I rest my case!
