We are on strike today. Scottish local authorities are offering 2.5% pay increase for next 3 years, which as it is below inflation, the unions said no to. No problem with that. I debated about striking because I really needed the prep day at school with no pupils, but decided the union had asked me for help and I would strike as if I asked them for help I would want them on side.

What's hacking me off though is the attitude of those not in a union who are working today. Our computer tech said to me yesterday, 'Alright for some getting a day off midweek!' I told him he could join a union and strike today or could support the strike by not working anyway but he would lose a day's pay - nah! Head asked him if he would take an improved pay offer if we won, yes!

I support the right of choice in whether to join a union or not, although I think in this job it's essential to have the backing, but why do those who take the benefits of successful industrial action by others without any financial loss themselves think it's ok to put us down? It was the same the last time over pensions, although the secretary did look a bit shamefaced when I asked her if she would refuse improved rights that time!

It's the way of the world JD.