Not many showed apparently, but I don't blame anyone who didn't show. I guess a lot of guys were rostered or spending time away from the company issues, like me.
But I have to point out - although I support unionisation of Ryanair, I thought the whole point of REPA was that it was a internal ANNONYMOUS forum to discuss issues. A meeting in person seemed a bit... frivelrous, not to mention a bit too much like being a fish in a barrel with the potential for any management types hanging around to see who pitched up. Besides, unless it was specifically to recruit more people to join a union, it would seem a bit like preaching to the the converted to me. Cowardly? Yes, maybe - but after hearing rumours of so many heads rolling in the past for trying to set up a union, a) no wonder a union hasn't materialised, b) thats why we have REPA - which at the moment is ONLY a website.
We all need to get out there and explain to people where the lines are. Who's REPA? Why join them if I can join IALPA? What advantage does it give me when the company doesn't recognise it? Those not like minded say "it costs money (of which we don't have much) and doesn't get me anything - it seems like a no brainer not to join" - this is what we're facing. And management will play on it and they know it. I have to say I thought like that too - but after this last pay deal I've had enough. If management aren't going to take this company seriously then the pilots bloody will!
It's a pity the management can't see beyond the length of their Mercedes' bonnets.
UK FR pilots should all join BALPA, which costs little but will reap big dividends once everyone's on board. EVERY FR pilot should sign up to REPA, which is Ryanair Pilot's own discussion site free of management interference, which is free to join. There you can put your name down to support the RPA, which is a pay deal that will make Ryanair the career airline we all know it can be.
As for UNITY UNITY UNITY - imho REPA seriously needs a new catchphrase - I mean, the notion is admirable, but I'm not a Socialist - I'm a Capitalist, and I say Invest For Success! Especially when it comes to my own pocket. The Unity thing kind of paints me Red and I'd rather not be associated with that image, thanks. However, collusion with other venture capitalists - that's perfectly reasonable to me!