As long as there are rules in place on when a maid can use her mobile phone - for example, at tea break at 3pm, or at 7pm to call home, or after she has completed her work for the day - employers should not prevent domestic helpers from owning a mobile phone as this is now part of modern life ("More employers unhappy over maids' mobile phone usage"; July 12).

However, maids should not constantly have earphones plugged in to listen to music or to chat, as this may lower their level of alertness in attending to young children or the elderly.

Perhaps a clause could be added to employment contracts to make clear what the rules are on the use of mobile phones for maids.

Jeff Tan Hong Liak