This thread is very amusing.
I am an ATCO, I control in the London TMA, quite a busy and complex piece of airspace.
If I make a mistake, Tariq, I can kill many more people than you. I
do not look after just one aircraft.
Pilots ARE skilled; however as an ex military aviator, I know what is a high cockpit workload and what is not. YES you should be given pay rises to keep up with cost of living rises (at the very least).
However, you have a very elitist and pompous attitude to other careers. You say that train drivers are not skilled due to the automation in their jobs - what about the automation in yours??
btw - my take home pay is £2600 a month; I do my job because it is a challenge and I enjoy it, but I would want more pay - who in their right mind in ANY job would not??
Why should I get paid a hell of a lot less than an FO or captain when my job is infinitely more challenging and carries similar risks (Yes, I know I could not die by my actions but see above about my liability)
When I sit in the seat to control, I work continuously on most occasions, though admittedly, it can be quiet some times and the pressure is not as high. Next time you are flying, sit back and take a look at what you actually do for most of the flight - monitor the Ts and Ps.
You guys do a sterling job but elitist attitudes like yours put people off.
Attitudes like yours will NOT win you pay rises or friends!!