Unions need to be very wary of an all-out war with the Government

THE trade union movement is in a very difficult place. Angry at the way its members have been treated by the budget it has to find a way to respond that protects their interests.

But that is easier said than done. Too soft a response could mean that nothing changes, further fuelling the ire of members and undermining the authority of the leadership, perhaps making them vulnerable to replacement.

But too aggressive a response could see a very large section of public opinion move firmly against the unions and, ironically, behind the Government. The wrong approach — as in one that does damage to the economy or to the state — could result in further job losses among union members or a further reduction in income beyond even what’s taken place to date.