Whilst I agree that there needs to be more acceptance of change, research in many Companies shows that the Climate - (a way of measuring culture) is created by the local manager.........and NOT by the CEO. (Google Glowinkowski for a recent, and UK based approach to the research)
If there is no local manager it is not surprising that over time the Union rep takes over that role. The simple fact that they are there and available, often senior, gives them that managerial role.
So if the manager is absent (at their desks, for instance, or without enough time to meet their very mobile staff), BA should not be surprised that there is no change orientation........ The Rep is effectively managing the place.
This is not bassa's fault. it is BAs, and they need to act on it NOW.