While the resignations were indeed signed, it was made VERY CLEAR that they would not be used without further consultation. Also explained as "gathering the ammunition" just in case.
How many of us were shocked and devastated to find out that they had in fact been submitted almost before the ink had dried ?
It's a bitter lesson I learn't then - NEVER sign away your job. With the advantage of hindsight, we were so naive and gullible.
We lost ALL of our bargaining power when the AFAP gave those letters to the companies.
- WE WERE NO LONGER ON STRIKE.
- THERE WAS NO LONGER A DISPUTE.
- WE HANDED THE COMPANIES A READY MADE SOLUTION.
I admit Hawke and Abeles have a lot to answer for, but so does the AFAP leadership at the time. Elements of that leadership still exert influence today.
