Driving, Housemaids and accidents..
Although traditionally, maids are expected to do only household chores, it is being increasingly observed that many are also being enrolled in driving schools so that they can double as drivers for the families which are sponsoring them.
One such housemaid, Lily (not her real name), recently joined a leading private driving school. “I have been in Doha for only a few months and I am doing all the household work for my sponsor’s family, including cleaning and washing, taking care of the children and sometimes even cooking,” she said.
When asked why she was getting enrolled into the driving school, Lily said her sponsor didn’t have time to pick children from school and came up with the idea of enrolling her into a driving school.
“I didn’t come here to work as a driver, I know that. But they offered me an extra payment of QR200 in addition to my salary, so I said OK,” she said.
He said that most maids who get enrolled in the schools have previously never driven a car in their lives and are very nervous about learning how to drive.
Sometimes it is really difficult to teach them because most of them just don’t understand what the instructor is trying to tell them and make many, many mistakes,” the instructor said.
Also, add to the fact that the maids often turn up lethargic at the school since they are already too tired from their work.
Although some may argue that maids are being exploited by their sponsors since they are saving up on the cost of hiring a separate driver, according to the law there is nothing illegal.
http://www.gulf-times.com/qatar/178/details/353270/housemaids-double-as-...
My only question here is how about when the maids are driving the cars and the children to school then maybe the employer can do the maids work at home. Perhaps that would be fair enough
I agree with you entirely....
it's an escape!
is a dream to others.
MULTI-TASKING!
I dont think I would feel safe.. if my kids are in the car with an inexperienced new driver.
If a maid is given many jobs I dont think she can do well in any.
@Aoy...will those kids who are used to jumping around in the car, ever listen to the maids. Added to that the maids getting to drive for the first time and the comment of the instructor, don't know how safe is the maid, the kids and other drivers on the road.
I don't see an issue with it as long as everyone is in agreement and the maid isn't overworked to the point of being exhausted. Adding driving onto a 12hour day is ridiculous.
Personally I'd happily pay for my Nanny to learn to drive, in case of an emergency.
Thelonious..thats what all the haughty people think!!
maids are already overworked and underpaid... so being offered additional QR200 for driving seems less... the money could have been better at least..
We need to discover the hidden talents amongst all citizens & use it for our benefit .. this is a step in the right direction ..
The house maid is satisfied ,,, the employer is happy
Her choice ,,, his children
what is the problem?
What a silly article.
I personaly belive it is wrong , but if the maid gets extra money and agrees to the duties then win / win for both.
As for the "Sometimes it is really difficult to teach them because most of them just don’t understand what the instructor is trying to tell them and make many, many mistakes,” the instructor said"
I believe the instructor quoted is an idiot and should not be teaching.
Some maids are better drivers, at least they’re looking out before they make turns!
While it is OK for maids to know driving and manage emergency situations in the households, it wouldn't be in the best interest of the parents to use their maids on a daily basis as drivers. Once in a while, if the driver isn't there, or the man of the house is away, the maid can come handy.
uhm.. look at doha roads.. people with kids drive with their kids standing inside the car or where ever. not bothering to get them to their seats and secured with seat belts.
no one started to be the best drivers in their first time.
i think these maids will be better drivers than their (slave masters) err.. employers. considering they are the real people TAKING CARE and RAISING the kids.
child in a car with an inexperienced driver, knowing how dangerous the roads of Doha can be, are negligent in their parental duties, in my opinion.
Stupid idea from the employer itself; they tried to save little bucks in exchange of their children safety???? I can't see any good LOGIC...but greediness.! What a shame!
[ with this ] deserve more regard from us now ...
Family drivers beware... you're next to get enrolled in maid's schools.
newbee drivers have to go the usual fear of driving a vehicle.
MAybe the author saw a newcomer but if you will talk to those who have been driving for sometime now in Doha, you will be amazed how competent they are.
Doesn't the employer care for the safety of their children? I don't see the logic of saving up if the lives of the kids will be at risk..