Putting aside the fact the PCS has backed strike action on the basis of only 61% approval on a 32% turnout (hardly a resounding demonstration of broad support), the co-ordinated strike action by the public sector raises a very simple question: where is the money going to come from?
Focusing on PCS again, we hear their general secretary bemoaned the future reduction on public sector pension pay-outs. But he delicately side-steps the question of where, realistically, the money is going to come from to support into the future the kind of public sector pension settlement we currently have.
I have no problem with strikes. If people want to band together and take co-ordinated action on something they feel strongly about they should absolutely do so and be free to do so. But I do have a problem with those who demand rewards that simply aren’t practical or sustainable.
Public sector pensions are a case in point. Changes have to be made because the money simply isn’t there.
So strike away. But if you’re going to demand something, try to make sure it’s a little more achievable and reasonable than ‘the moon on a stick’.
Comments
Phil / June 18 2011 7:11am
The public sector should be asked the question "Where were you when Brown destroyed private pension schemes and would you have been prepared to pay additional tax to bail out private sector"?
Effectively the previous government did use tax payers money to do just that except they did not ask us but did it anyway and now there is no money left!