Ryanair has never been a stranger to controversy, but the carrier has probably set a new standard with an assertion that joining the pilots’ union Balpa is akin to membership of the Taleban.
The Times reports one of the carrier’s senior managers Warwick Brady sent a memo to its pilots warning them against joining the union.
The memo reportedly read: We have no objection to any Ryanair pilot joining Balpa, the Taleban, the Monster Raving Loonies or, indeed, the Moonies. If you want to waste £1,000 we recommend fast women, slow horses, or even greyhound racing; at least you’ll have a few minutes of fun.”
The memo goes on, reportedly, to state that if Ryanair is forced to accept union recognition, pay would be frozen and “favourable” share options scrapped.
Jim McAuslan, of Balpa, is quoted as saying: “We want Ryanair to be a success. That is not incompatible with union membership. Pilots are professional people and want to be treated with respect.”
Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad
