The Labour Movement that arose from the Industrial Revolution and grew slowly and strongly during the first half of the 20th Century was a just cause, a noble endeavour. The Labour Movement in many countries helped most workers, not just unions. It fostered labour laws that protect all and influenced how all workers might be treated. But, as an observer, who is neither a member of the management elites, nor a member of the union elites, I think modern unions have lost touch with reality and with the times, especially these tough economic days. Unions, over the years, have become spoiled and seem to have a sense of entitlement out of place in today's world. In recent times we've seen how greed almost made the world's economy collapse. Those responsible may never really be accountable, and that's a lesson for the future.
Unions fight for their members and that's fine. But they should be mindful who suffers as a consequence of their actions. We are in the midst of one of the worse recessions in recent times. Those of us who have work, seem to be working more and harder for less income and without any significant benefits. Our taxes, in the end pay for the salaries of those who demand more and more benefits than the average among us can only dream of having. The timing of this strike may backfire on the unions. Many hardworking taxpayers look forward to enjoying as much of the summer as possible, utilizing the services that they fund with their taxes, and breathing air free of the stench of garbage. Of all years, it's a shame that unions and management could not reach an understanding to avoid this strike in this particular one. Not too mention how this strike could affect tourism in Toronto. Just as Americans are now looking at managing the risks of having companies that are too big, we should look at how to deal with unions that are too big as well.
I hope it's over in a couple of days. Anything longer and a "pox on both their houses."
-- Post From My iPhone
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