Can I ask that you hang tough...another 6 months? (Not like you have a choice, but I digress...) There are a few who feel like you do, and are committed to listening more, communicating more frequently, and being available OUT of the office sometimes. New guys swear in during March. You probably won't see much difference for several more months--but by next summer I hope some of you are saying "hey...things are different".
Albie:
I can hang in there for a little while longer and I hope that WE ALL can make the MEC a better and stronger unit. But I can do it because you and the the others are coming in and represent a fresh look and hopefully some possible movement towards a better future--it's a start. The anger within the force is palpable and real and that sentiment needs to be relayed to the MEC directly--people are fed up and tired of being told and not asked, or atleast listened to. There needs to be a serious come-to-Jesus meeting at some point in the near future and some massive change in demeanor from the MEC towards the guys paying their good money to have them represent them.
It's disheartening to think that there is some motive going on wherever in the MEC that appears at times to not be working in the best interest in the membership. It isn't what we are supposed to be about as a union.
Best of luck on the changes you are embarking on. I hope you can make a major difference!
WM