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The tip of the iceberg

In reference to Duane Dunstan's letter (Letters, Aug. 19, page 8), the problem of abuse and mistreatment of overseas workers is more common than many realize. The housemaid's story in that letter is one of many. These poor girls are terrified to speak out, as this would often mean deportation -- and their families rely on them to remit money back home.

The pittance that they are paid also needs to be exposed. This abuse of human rights needs publicizing in the Western press. Then, maybe, the government here might act instead of turning a blind eye.

If Taiwan wants to join world bodies such as the UN or the World Health Organization then it must respect human rights and put its own house in order first.

Another major problem is the inability of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Manila to issue visitor's visas so that family members can visit. Lonely girls often spend years without seeing their husbands.

I am a British citizen and I am married to a Filipina. My wife has been denied any form of visa to visit me. I am lucky I can afford to leave Taiwan and work elsewhere; the shame of it is that I will have to do this soon.

Peter Jones
United Kingdom

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