Everyone has an opinion of BALPA, presumably based on their own personal experiences. It's is unfair to cane BALPA in regards to RYANAIR/RPG, for two reasons. Firstly, BALPA came as close as anyone has or sadly is possibly going to get in organising/unifying FR Pilots. In 2006, I believe it was a slip of the tongue regarding membership numbers, and underhand strategic base movements by FR management that led to a very narrow defeat! Secondly, Ryanair uses the more 'pro-company' employment legislation of the Emerald Isle, whereby they are not (yet) legally bound to recognise and negotiate with any unions.
Just my humble opinion.
