Public, private sector unions different

Controversy and charges made by both sides make it hard to get a clear picture of what is happening in Wis. After reading columns by Richard Cohen, George Will and others in the paper it is clear we have to think hard before condemning either Wisconsin Gov. Walker or the unions. These events will affect us all.

Wages in unionized states are generally higher than in other states. It is also clear that unions are necessary to protect the workers from unfair labor practices. But municipal unions are not the same as private sector unions. Private sector union negotiations are controlled by management, the union and company profits. Both sides know this and have to practice restraint when profits are down. The government is a monopoly. Unions negotiate with politicians, many who are financed by labor and union dues and who rely on labor for money and votes. Politicians can find it easier to cave in to union demands and simply raise taxes to pay them and avoid problems.

For too many years politicians passed the buck to taxes and our children. Here are a few of the examples listed by Will and Cohen:

Ÿ California police (many under age 50) retire with 90 percent retirement benefits. Police and firemen have dangerous jobs, but so do many other professions where pensions are far less and more affordable.

Ÿ Over 700 New York teachers have retired with benefits over $100,000 dollars per year.

Ÿ Many union personnel retire at a young age with large pensions after 20 years service.

I believe the absent legislators from Wisconsin and elsewhere should get back and work this problem through. Arbitration and reconciliation are part of democracy. I agree with Cohen’s remark that unions are necessary and we sympathize with them but we do not entirely support them.

William McNutt

Des Plaines