Why does no one respect professionals any more? Being professional use to be a source of pride and a form of praise. Individuals are still conscientious ,trust worthy and discrete. The majority are honest and competent so why doesn't the Goverment value or trust their views? Why do politicians disregard the views of the medical profession on the NHS, ignore teacher opinion on Education and dismiss social workers as having nothing to offer on planning the future care of older people? Why would they rather listen to policy advisors than those who earn their living doing the job? The answer appears to be that the Government regards professional bodies the same way it regards the trade unions, concerned only with their members interests . Why do the general public allow politicans to dismiss and ignore the views of doctors,nurses,social workers and teachers? Has all this talk of gold plated pensions, annual pay rises and long holidays led the public to be cynical about public sector workers motives?I hope not. For the sake of the sick,the vulnerable and the old,our children and grand children I hope not.Blair McPherson author of Equipping managers for an uncertain future published by Russell House.
