Latest editorial
A “HISTORIC” recognition deal has been agreed between Ryanair and the trade union representing pilots.
The British Airline Pilots Association (Balpa) announced yesterday that it had signed a voluntary agreement whereby Balpa will be recognised as the sole trade union representing all of Ryanair’s 600 employed pilots based in Britain.
Balpa general secretary Brian Strutton said: “Given Ryanair’s previous hostility towards unions, today’s agreement is a historic one.
![[Pic: Andrew Wiard]](https://msd11.gn.apc.org/sites/default/files/styles/desktop/public/2026-01/19860406_a_wiard_0001.jpg.webp?itok=d2RMNwWw)
LAURA DAVISON traces how Murdoch’s mass sackings, political deals and legal loopholes shattered collective bargaining 40 years ago – and how persistent NUJ organising, landmark court victories and new employment rights legislation are finally challenging that legacy
CWU leader DAVE WARD tells Ben Chacko a strategy to unite workers on class lines is needed – and sectoral collective bargaining must be at its heart
