My second strike tomorrow.
There’s not a whole lot to say on the matter that can’t be covered by a few Reality Check articles from the Guardian:
Are public sector pensions fair?
Guardian – List of Unions striking
It’s going to be an interesting day, especially as more than “just” teachers or public sector workers are involved this time. Obviously, it’s down to each individual to decide whether or not they follow the vote of their union, and I understand money is tight, however, i’ve been seriously disappointed at the number of people at school who have chosen to work tomorrow.
In my department I am the only person out of the four of us to withdraw my labour, and all of us are in unions that have voted to strike. Also, no-one has indicated that they’re going to make any sort of donation to the hardship fund to support those that have decided to do so.
Does that mean that if any concessions are won through industrial action, my colleagues will turn down what they didn’t stand up for? It’s going to be a different matter if things progress beyond one day strikes, but I feel a bit disheartened by the lack of solidarity being shown.
Another point of interest is how support for the strikes and against public sector cuts is split when looked at along gender lines: 67% of women questioned support industrial action versus 55% of men; out of the 28% of people who agreed that the government was handling the economy well (who are these people???), 22% of women agreed whereas 34% of men did so.
Interesting.
BBC News – Strike: BBC poll suggests strong support
