SEARCH FOR THE HEROES

If you believe in an honours system (which I don't) then no doubt the news that Gordon Brown is to allow people to nominate members of their local community for awards will be welcome and appropriate.
The PM , who has written a book, Britain's Everyday Heroes, says he wants to recognise "the great work that people do" in the community. A highly laudable aim and no disrespect to those who get awards. But my gripe is - is this really the best we can do?
Under Brown's proposals, advertising campaigns in newspapers will encourage nominations for awards - but only below the level of MBEs and CBEs. £515milion will be made available for community groups and voluntary organisations. Today, July 24, is also planned as a day when the government and "the country as a whole" could honour those "acting for good".
Gordon says: "It is right that we look at how our honours system can recognise those in our emergency services ." Is it not also right that ALL emergency services workers should be paid wages commensurate with their 24/7 dedication, responsibilities and sheer commitment to the greater good. Yet public sector pay within the NHS , fire and ambulance service is, frankly, an outrage As for the £515million, well it's a drop in the ocean . Across the country, NHS staff are beijng made redundant thanks to the consequences of PFI projects which now have a capital value of over £60billion.
Environment Agency staff (crucial to the current crisus around flooding) also face redundancy. I have no doubt this is a well-meant gesture by the Govt. But it must ring pretty hollow to families trying to survive on low pay and poor working conditions. I suspect they would gladly swap a pretty badge for a decent Living Wage.