N2000
BALPA's finances are inevitably under strain. Each new member is entitled to unlimited legal cover and support - all good stuff of course. However if we are expanding in areas where remuneration is poor then 1% is not a lot towards these cost. Additionally BALPA has expanded its operation to increase contacta with other non-uk associations. This has led to an increase in overseas conferences/meetings etc... all very expensive.
Like you I would like to see BALPA be more of a union but I suspect that as long as we continue to be an Association of empolyees in different companies with inevitably different aspirations and problems such a change will never occur.