May i just pick up on the "job for life, if you want it" comment that has been made a couple of times.........
Standing back and observing the attitudes of younger people who have been entering into the job these past 15 years (or so), i am aware that they no longer obviously believe the job is for life. To some it rapidly feels like a life sentence, once the full reality sets in.
More and more disgruntled younger employees are searching out new ATC employers or completely new careers.
I firmly believe that management MUST wake up and take note! During these last 5years how many employees have left NATS to work for overseas employers? How many have requested sabbaticals? Quite a number, on both counts....... and the figures are rising!
It will be interesting to see how many of the sabbatical "temporary" leavers actually come back.
The "job for life" culture has changed. Disgruntled employees are more prepared to take charge of their lives, decide upon what they consider to be most important to them, and if necessary act with their feet AND LEAVE.
Many people at MACC are outspoken at the moment and unhappy about the impending move; it will only need a small percentage of them to carry out their threats to leave and the system will no longer work. Many are of the age to do just that. Some are fortunate enough to have spouses in very good jobs, and others will actively seek employment elsewhere.
The unit is not flush with staff.......... what unit is?
I believe it is this that will make a strong bargaining tool.