I did, along with somewhere between 10,000 (police estimate) and 20,000 (union claim) others in Bristol.
However I confess to mixed feelings over the decision to strike and have realised that I am much happier demonstrating in support of others than I am of myself. Government policy will affect my pension, although I'm unsure of the details, but while none of us wish to see a fall in our living standards, we do need to face up to the challenge of providing for the increasing number of retired people. I'd like to see a serious debate on this question.
In the end I based my decision to strike on my frustration with the government's unwillingness to tackle the growing inequalities within our society and its apparent aim to undermine our public services. I wish they had listened earlier and I hope they will have taken note today.
I think a lot of strikers probably had mixed feelings. I didn't strike, nor did any of my colleagues, but I don't agree with the changes to our pension. I'm not sure this government will listen. Remember Maggie T and the miners' strike?
ReplyDeleteI agree there should be a serious debate about pensions and so many other things. I've tried to start a bit of a debate in my latest blog http://karin-greenandgenerous.blogspot.com/2011/11/future-is-in-our-pockets.html
With you on this one. Both the ambivalence and the exasperation with the Government's attitude. Still at least they fall short of Jeremy Clarkson's attitude!
ReplyDelete@ Karin: I read your blog with interest Karin. It's pretty much how I feel myself.
ReplyDelete@ blue hands: I see that Mr Clarkson has apologised for his foolish remarks. I hope he's learned his lesson but somehow I doubt it.