GR was prone to be a bit of over optimism..as well as spreading the truth a bit lightly. He also made promises which could not be kept. However, he did have the best of intentions for the pilots and there was no malice or alterior motive in any of his actions. He was basically what you see is what you get. One of the few guys who says what he feels and will tell you to your face if you need telling off. Lets not forget that he has indeed given many their first jet jobs!
For so long now, he was playing the game of trying to please both sides and keeping everyone happy. In so doing, he has alienated many of the pilots who were tired of his promises.
So for the guys who are not in the company, please don't go on about this "all for one and one for all" stuff. He's not been sacked he's voluntarily resigned, which in some circles may sound like a sacking, but if you know GR, he was probably so pissed off that he did resign, he's still a TRE and he's still hanging around, and for all we know he's done everyone a favour, especially if management now see the full anger that is amongst the ranks of the pilots.
I'm sure GR being the chap he is, has been shielding the management of how the pilots really feel. Once they know the true feelings, they may reconsider their actions..which may not be a good thing!!