Cannot wait for store to open

What a shame Mark Waters of Umina (Peninsula News, 17 October) does not quite get the bigger picture when he asked "who will benefit from permanent employment" at the new McDonalds coming very soon to Umina.

Having a McDonalds in Umina will employ at least three fulltime and up to 60 casual employees.

This may only be three fulltime people but it gives more people the opportunity to gain employment, and helps another 50 or 60 casuals to know they can follow their dream of a job that could lead to them being the CEO of one of Australia's largest employers.

So who gains?

At least 80,000 employees around Australia, not to mention the world are employed by McDonalds in some capacity.

McDonalds makes a contribution to society with Ronald McDonald House and training for all staff that equips them with the skills to be productive in our society and if they wish gain a University degree.

I cannot wait for this store to open as even the older members of our community will benefit from companionship and may be the only face they see each day as they eat the meals that they can afford.

So who gains?

We all do, and I don't even have a vested interest in McDonalds.

Email, 24 Oct 2011 Val Tanner Umina