Striking in Times of Need
by With a recession still deeply affecting the economy and so many people out of work, how can going on strike be justified?
Sometimes I wish that there weren’t any laws protecting employees that go on strike. True, there are times when it’s really necessary for people to go on strike to get their needs noticed and all the rest, but what about now? What about in a time when there are thousands of people without jobs because of a recession? How can people go on strike with a clear conscience? The fact is that a lot of people don’t care. As long as there is a raise to be had and more benefits to fight for, no one cares about all of the people who are unemployed and struggling to make ends meet.
This is where I’m coming from. On November 16, 2009, the London Transit Commission went on strike. The purpose of the strike was for better working conditions (which I agree with – drivers have a very long day), a pay raise (I do not agree with this), and more benefits (I disagree).
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not against people getting raises and benefits; however, I am against people asking for more when “more” is difficult to come by. Why aren’t these people thankful that they’re still employed? It may be rude for me to say this, but I’m glad that someone threw eggs at them at the picket line.
Image via Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia
I can’t say that the source of all my anger is just because I believe these people to be selfish. My annoyance also stems from the LTC putting up a fight against people finding other ways to get to work, to school, to the grocery store, et cetera. Shuttle services and student discounts by other traveling means are getting blasted because the LTC will not allow other means of affordable transportation. It’s ridiculous. In a time when the weather is starting to get cold and exams are starting up at schools, the LTC should either start functioning again or just shut up.
The LTC isn’t the only organization to go on strike this year. The MTO (Ministry of Transportation) is on strike, the police went on strike, the Postal Service went on strike, and the Fanshawe College faculty is looking to go on strike… What is going on here?
Maybe I’m missing a huge piece of the puzzle, but I am honestly tired of hearing people complain that they don’t get paid enough when there are people out there who are not being paid at all. Forget about being paid… now people who are employed can’t get to work, and students might not be able to graduate on time after years of studying and struggling.
Image via Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia
Thanks for that.
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Post CommentFegger
On December 5, 2009 at 10:07 am
ML–frustration, and the irony of the condition, are well noted here; and, as always, well written. Unfortunately, what we’re seeing in our part of the world, is an opportunistic ‘reflex’ that was first noted during the 1930’s (our Great Depression). Here, companies may have been struggling (or simply trying to amass greater long-term wealth unknowing of the end of the Depression); and they sought to renegotiate temporary terms with their workforce. Many companies abuse this practice, mind you, and the unions garnered strength. Inasmuch as the available workforce was/is plentiful, the companies feel secure in their negotiations while the workers feel threatened and advocate in the opposite direction of the management. It’s not always the case that the workers, in such times, want a large piece of the pie; but, instead, want to communicate that they’re ‘invested’ in the company and desire to be recognized for it. Yet, as I eluded earlier, either side could be grossly taking advantage of the present economic atmosphere; and, in turn, the consumer bears the burden of such parting of reasoning.
Perhaps you may finish your degree online? Joking!
S A JOHNSON
On December 18, 2009 at 10:14 am
i agree with this article. It sucks seeing this when you are unemployed or know people that are unemployed.
Patrick Regoniel
On March 11, 2010 at 8:16 pm
I think the best way to deal with these situations is to upgrade one’s skills. We can always find work that satisfies us and pay better. Thanks for the share.