[bitontheslide]

Originally Posted by Soldier Boy

I don't see the unions refusing any offer that doesn't meet their full demands, that's not what's happening at all. What I do see is the government flat out refusing to enter meaningful negotiation AT ALL for the mostpart, and when they do, offering borderline offensive platitudes that come nowhere near the mark, like "how about a discount at the shops?"

Thing is they could probably offer MEANINGFUL non-salary compensation if they chose to in the current economic climate. Cut-price energy deals. Fuel discounts. Things that would actually have a meaningful impact on the monthly budget of NHS workers. Get imaginative.

They offer things like 5% off at Boots.

i think you re missing the point, until the most belligerent side are willing to talk, there is no constructive dialog, and the only thing that can change that is time. For example, if the strikes last the remainder of this year, we start to get close to election season and the tories will all get jumpy again at impending disaster. You will be amazed at how much cash is suddenly found at that point