The Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) wanted the government to pay them a 13th month salary even though some, including this writer, think that they are not even earning their 12th month salary as it is.

If you are in business or commerce, it is almost inevitable that many civil service organisations have called you for a contribution for their sports club, annual dinner, family day or souvenir magazine. I am sure many have received call from municipal councils, the customs department and possibly even the fire services and rescue department.

While I have no objection to anyone trying their luck, I am appalled at some of tactics that have been employed to get these contributions. They seem to think all businesses will be cowed into contributing if they take a 'official' and stern approach to soliciting.

One such person from one such department called my business and wanted to speak to the person responsible for 'official and regulatory' matters. Upon probing further, this person turned out to be a 'public relations' person soliciting funds for his department's sports day. What got me wound up was his very stern tone in demanding that he be put through to the right person.

Having dealt with such inanity before and not one to suffer fools lightly, I told him off and advised him to make sure to identify himself the next time and state the reason for his calling. Further, I also him if he was soliciting for funds, then it would be better advised if he put the matter in writing and that I would not tolerate such bullying tactics.

Following this exchange, for some unfathomable reason, he hung up.

Why are these civil servants doing all this and on office time on top of it? Taxpayers money is not for them to arrange such extra-curricular activities. Can the chief secretary to the government issue a directive to all civil servants to stop such activities at once?

And in spite of all these time wasting, they still had the gall to ask for an extra month's salary? Good luck, mate.