Hi everybody,
1st post, so bear with me!
I am a serving EGLL ATSA2. The issue of SAMOS is only one of many concerns we have at EGLL at present concerning the ATSA2 function. The problems with SAMOS introduction at EGLL are twofold:
1) EGLL Ops and Management have already committed to this project without recourse to those who will be expected to do it - par for the course, I'm afraid. They want it introduced at minimum cost - hence the 8 hour CBT package, plus a practical assessment, followed by an exam with an Instructor from either EGKK or EGCC. For a number of reasons, we all think that this is insufficient, and a more thorough Met course should be provided.
2) They have a big problem which they have failed to identify - they haven't got enough flexibility within ATSA manpower to allow training to take place within working shifts, and are currently working to a deadline of 31.05.05. Fine if you have the resources available to release staff for training - but they haven't. The newly introduced Working Practice has seen a reduction of 5 posts, leaving the absolute minimum of ATSAs left to provide a service. Believe me, there is no flexibility available here!
The only option is for the 25 ATSAs to attend training on their rostered days' off. Problem here is that anything conducted on rest days is purely voluntary. It was suggested that the Management offer overtime payments for attendance on rest days - they have not responded as yet. I can foresee troubles ahead if they don't follow this suggestion, purely because nobody will turn up - and they're not obliged to! No attendance equals no training equals no SAMOS equals no Met at EGLL because the Met Office boys will be gone.
Unfortunately, the EGLL pontiffs are singing from the usual hymnsheet - don't tell or involve the ATSAs at all - just announce to them that they WILL be doing it. They consider PCS to be weak, and the ATSA workforce too small and vulnerable to make much impression on their master plan. This time, though, they may have to reconsider - and quickly, if they want to provide SAMOS to the masses at EGLL on June1st.
You may just have to put up with me and my friends broadcasting it out to you for a little while longer yet
