Asbestos is a danger to our children’s lives

Readers are shocked that a banned building material is still used. Other topics: disasters, Trevor Noah and tattoos.

Readers are shocked by the discovery of asbestos in some new buildings. Lee Hoagland / The National

I was shocked to read Asbestos found in new buildings despite ban (October 25). This is terrible. Asbestos has been banned for years in the United Kingdom. The only good news is that it takes a fair while to start breaking down. It's not dangerous when new unless damaged or drilled into.

Anyone with it in their newly built apartment need not worry for now.

James De Ville, Abu Dhabi

It would seem that the legislation banning the material has not been followed up by checks and controls. Our lives and the lives of our children are at stake here.

Samer Bouan, Dubai

Gulf isn’t free from storms

Your editorial, Mexican hurricane shows the merits of preparation (October 26) mentions that you don't expect big storms like Hurricane Patricia in the UAE. I have sailed extensively in the Arabian Gulf, and let me assure you that I've seen some nasty, nasty squalls.

Jeff Aboularage, US

It would have been nice if you had finished that article with some tips about what to do in an emergency.

Jayde Ellis, Dubai

Polio workers deserve praise

UAE and Gates foundation to honour polio workers with new award (October 24) was inspiring. The polio eradication programme is commendable, and it is a great initiative to reward the people who have vaccinated so many children in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

K Ragavan, India

Signs should reflect limits

The editorial, End confusion on speed limits (October 23), was good to read. It asks the most relevant of questions: why can't the speed posted on the signs be the actual speed limit?

Let’s lose the buffers.

I Douglas, Dubai

Sisi’s visit is welcome news

I was pleased to read that the Egyptian president is coming to Abu Dhabi (El Sisi to visit UAE when 'ties with Egypt are at their best', October 26). The Muslim Brotherhood, which briefly held power in Egypt, posed a real danger to this region. The UAE has long identified the Brotherhood for what it is and has helped make the region much safer.

Name withheld by request

Seeking a higher price per barrel

In reference to Oil at $80 seen as ideal in next phase, says UAE Minister of Economy (October 25), a price of $100 a barrel would make me happy. Nicola Mundle, Ras Al Khaimah

Noah failed to hit the mark

I agree 100 per cent with Saeed Saeed's review, Trevor Noah charms but lacks bite at Dubai Comedy Festival (October 25). It was a PG13 performance that lacked any punch.

S Samuel, Dubai

Corruption holds South Africa back

I refer to Joseph Dana's opinion article, Post-apartheid, inequality still rules in South Africa (October 26). The problem is not inequality; corruption is the main issue. Since 1994, more than Dh100 billion has disappeared from the country's coffers.

Salim Mahood, Abu Dhabi

Is it best to think before you ink?

If people did not get tattoos, they wouldn't have to have them removed (Dubai clinic offers to help banish tattoo regret with latest laser solution, October 25). Remember that your body is not yours, it is just given to you to use. Use it in a good way, not a bad or wrong way.

Mohammed Soyab, Abu Dhabi

When people ask me why I don't get a tattoo, my answer is: have you ever seen a Rolls-Royce with a bumper sticker? Ismail Adams, Switzerland