CAP493.
I understand all of that.
So it can hardly be a good move for NATS to take a "non negotiable" stance at such a difficult time. It is in everyone's interest for this to be resolved by negotiation and a sensible resolution to be found.
Previous action did in fact lead to all manner of improvements not just to pay but across the board including SRATCOH and traffic management as it strengthened the hand of the staff.
I don't think public opinion really comes into this-they will be just as much against Barron and the board who have form on taking peoples' pensions and leaving them in the lurch as he did at Alstom. He has managed to accrue a pot of £1.8m in just 4 years at NATS-more than anyone would accrue in 40 years in the company, and there are plenty of those.
Not too sure I feel sorry for Alitalia shareholders either-the Italian govt have bailed them out against EU law for years.
I believe this is the time for us all to take stock. NATS should shelve their pension plans and concentrate on making up their "holiday shortfall" and then we'll get a proper picture of the true situation. The market is down so they should be able to pick up some bargains shares and property for long term growth.
From a staff position I would also shelve the 2009 pay rise as a sign of "goodwill" which will hopefully strengthen their position in 2010 with a view to resolving pensions first.