I’ve reflected a little about my Hawaii Superferry rant from yesterday.I think both the supporters and the opponents of the HSF have acted like hypocrites during this debacle. The opponents went after the HSF with such a strong tenacity that I’ve never seen in all my life living here. But these same folks have ignored, cruise ships, Matson, and Young Brothers. Whom have done far more environmental damage than the HSF would ever do.
On the other hand, the supporters of the HSF in a way unfairly blame the opponents for the demise of this revolutionary transportation service. However if the State of Hawaii didn’t cut corners (State of Hawaii Auditor’s reports here and here) it is possible the Hawaii Superferry would be still operating today (although I figure the HSF would’ve still faced strong opposition even if they followed the law from the get go).
Governor Lingle is going to be facing some tough decisions since her furlough proposal was declared illegal by the courts.I really don’t see there is much options remaining for the governor to bridge the state’s projected budget shortfall aside a mass layoff of employees.Especially if there is no 11th hour agreement reached with the unions. Thus I would urge the leaders of the HGEA, UPW, etc to step up to plate to prevent a catastrophe from happening.
Lastly, I hope the supporters of splitting Hawaii County into two counties read this letter to the editor.Richard Swann does a pretty good job explaining the very difficult steps it would take to create a new county.
I think many people (including you) are misinterpreting the current collective bargaining situation.
After Judge Sakamoto’s ruling we are not at a “no furloughs allowed” standoff that must inevitably lead to layoffs. Rather, we are in a “furloughs must be negotiated” situation. If the collective bargaining actually proceeds (or, one could almost say, if serious negotiations BEGIN), then it is quite possible that furloughs could be part (or even all) of the final agreement.
Furloughs and Superferry — both times Governor Lingle’s efforts to bypass law and order have been brought in check by the courts.
Lesson for the Governor: do it right the first time.
The Super Ferry was unjustly killed by environNazis, a hostile legislature, and a crooked judicial court. The benefit to these islands will be sadly realized when a alternate form of inter-island transportation will not be there when needed. A sad affair to the people that have both the land and sea in their hearts. Anything good must be destroyed.
To the state workers, enjoy your layoffs. Your union leaders will sit back in their comfortable life, enjoying your union dues, eating your money. Collective bargaining, pah-leese, there is no such thing in the union vocabulary. Talk about killing the golden goose.
Last time I looked, I voted for the governor not the unions.