I don't consider the big ussue here to be the 2.2 % this year but the fact that for too many years now we as ATCO's have paid with good will to bail the company out of one crisis or another.
We have operated beyond our requirements in areas such as secondary validations secondary duties - projects research etc etc. for NO extra pay often working in our own time for 'time in lieu' which we can't use because of a lack of staff.
All this in a attempt to help the company provide the service WE want to be proud of.
For years we have 'kept the powder dry' and 'waited for the big claim next year' and seen nothing to bring us back in line with the industry slipping slowly down the slope of recognition in terms of pay.
I'm sorry now Richard but my bank of good will is overdrawn - TAG stopped investing in my future pension to the tune of about 6% last year - we did not object (as it was within your rights) but now you offer me the 6% back as a pay rise - over 2 years! and expect me to be greatful. I am insulted
The bottom line is the pay burden for NATS will the the same in 2 years time as it was a year ago and WE are paying again with Good Will.
All this when NATS have just paid in excess of 60 Million in compensation and millions in legal fees for an out of court settlement with Lockhead and EDS.
We need to be brought back in line with our industry. It's bad luck that TAG have just taken over but let us also remember that it was the Governemnt that screwed us for years and they are still majority share holders - 2.2% is OK for TAG's half - where is the governments half !
