From my experience as an ATC for the last decade or so, I would have to agree that the general public have very little idea of what or how we do our job. However, I expect that most would understand that not having a controller watching over their aeroplane when there should be is not a good situation. There doesn't seem to be much happening to correct the staffing situation requiring the use of TIBA, so perhaps a little mass hysteria amongst the general public might encourage some action. Then again, maybe not.