Unions
I posted this on another thread but it works particularly well here with the discussion re unions.
As an ex union rep (not flight deck but aviation) there is a fundamental element the 'Don't join/won't join' element consistantly miss. You need numbers of members and the more the better. I've taken the references to EZY out as it it not relevant to this posting, as it applies whatever company you are in. Its pointless moaning about what BALPA T&G Unison USDAW arent doing for you. You are NOT a MEMBER and therefore are NOT being represented by the union. To be represented you have to join. If you're not happy with the policies being persued, then YOU have to make the effort to change them, YOU have to make the COMMITTMENT, as those you are unsatisfied with have done to get you to your current position. I used to have non members come to me and say what are you doing about such and such? 'Well I pay my subs, I'm do this for fellow MEMBERS in my time and its my committment, what's it got to do with you?' I'd ask. 'Well it affect's me too' they'd say. How very true I'd agree, and me doing #### all would affect you even more! Try it and see!
I used to get some very satisfactory results for both members and the company on individual personal issues, (the member isn't always right you see), but on the big T&C issues you will not get significant change without strength in numbers. This means the dissillusioned have to get their hands in their pockets and in effect pay to improve their conditions. Just like existing members already are, you have to see it as an investment. Literally no pain no gain. If you're not prepared to put up then shut up. A works council can influence some agenda in my experience, but with a strong union the effect is magnified. For those who were dissatisfied with vote results you need to remember that you may well have 100 members, but if only 5 can be bothered to vote on an issue then its not rocket science to see what effect the wrong 5% voting can have! You have to be active, not passive, that means other members have to assist to encourage non-members to join, you can't expect the reps to do it all. Or do you? because they have decided to try and improve things and sacrifice their time and effort is it right to sit there and say I'm a member, I'm way to busy to help, but I sure can moan about whats done on my behalf!. Well thats the benefit of my 8 years as a rep, and to any frustrated rep out there, just remember to ask 'Well what are YOU going to do from outside the union/council?' How are YOU going to improve things here at xyz?, to the next dumb question from a non-member. Then ask why they don't join, in my experience it frequently it boils down to them expecting something for nothing.
From Sydney Zoo an Alligator,
was put on board a flying freighter.
He ate the pilot and the navigator,
then asked for more with mashed potater