Radhaz and SassyPilotsWife,
Yep, I wasn't referring to those on the coal face doing essential jobs. They are taken for a ride far too often. It's the explosion of non-essential admin and middle management council and quango jobs.
Gordomac,
Not sure I would agree with your assertion that paying for your training marks a pilot as 'unprofessional' or 'doing anything' for a job. Doctors and lawyers pay for their training etc etc.
My father refused to go on the dole in the 90s recession. A matter of principle, he said. So we kids ate rice and his marriage failed. Clever.