Thanks all for the great responses. It is as I expected- unfortunately.
I am wrestling with the new norm.
At CAL, prior to the merger, we had the numbers always loaded before push, there was no taxi check, and the b4 takeoff check was 3 items. Our on time rate was top notch- as evidenced by the bonuses paid nearly monthly. There were 3 pieces of paper from the printer. After the merger we were suddenly unable to get off the gate on time waiting on final weights and perf- so it got pushed onto the taxi way along with a mile long (not taxi) take off check and about 8print outs that have nothing to do with a safe departure.

We have some really great fo's who are very (maybe too) motivated to get off on time-inspite of briefing to keep the pace slow and comfortable.

As Captain I am expected to respond and verify the Fmc and MCP is properly set*while*taxiing, but not to verify the flap setting or trim

I see some desk pilot trying to impress his bean counter boss fingerprints all over this.

Too bad the union is more concerned with the quality of the crew meal utensils than safety on this. They are silent.

Being a public forum I will hold short here..,