Dear Colleagues:
Once again, thank you for the steady stream of votes that are coming in as well as the words of encouragement. I know we will really make things happen on this occasion as long as we all stick together.
I have received quite a few emails from guys who were not on my original mailing list enquiring whether they were able to take part in the vote. This vote is open to all GSM pilots whether contract or permanent, so that I can gauge the preference of the majority with regards to Union recognition. The only reason some pilots were not on the mailing list is because the list I was passed was a little bit out of date.
Anyone who has not received an email from me should send their union preference to:
[email protected]
We really need your vote!
If anyone has a current list of 737 pilots email addresses, I would appreciate a copy so that I might resolve the issue.
737 Email list received with thanks.
VOTING UPDATE:
So far I have received 62 replies to my survey:
Votes from Permanent Pilots
BALPA: 33
IPF: 7
Contract Pilots:
BALPA: 13
IPF: 3
4 people have advised me they have resigned but wish us all well.
2 people have refused to divulge their preferences.
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I plan to close the vote on the 27th Jan. I will then forward the results of the vote to each and every GSM pilot whether they took part in the vote or not. Contained in the email will be a link to the chosen union, a break down of the costs and instructions on how to join. I will then respectfully ask that in the collective interests of our future within the company that we all join that union and put our personal opinions aside. I know this will be hard for some to swallow, judging by the opinions expressed in some of the emails, but I feel we
MUST work together as a team, and hopefully the benefits will follow.
I will also include in the email posters to be displayed in each of the crew rooms with the outcome of the vote and the instructions on how to join the chosen Union. I would then optimistically hope for Union recognition by the company for the start of the summer season. Imagine a summer season protected from the excesses of the management by a scheduling agreement and a company council!!!
WE CAN DO IT!
Okay Guys and Gals, that's all from me for now. Keep spreading the word and sending the votes. Let's keep the momentum going and stay positive; we really can make a difference to our workplace!
BB
P.S I accept the argument for a Flight Crew Council, but cannot see the current Chairman ceding to the will of mere pilots (or employees). I believe it will take more than a rational mature dialogue to get things done or else I wouldn't be writing this post. If he listened to any of the pilot management at the moment we wouldn't be where we are now. Our Chairman's attitude is blinded by the commercial department, and until such a time as the pilot body have collective teeth, that will continue.