[P7_TOM]

November 20. 2020.

Is that a date which all should record? Seriously?

Buckley is out there, swimming in shark infested waters, all alone and; I might say, unassisted by the industry he represents. That industry may be forgiven for cheering (mildly) from the sidelines, while waiting for the Senate reserves to come onto the field. Just like in the movies – well life ain't more like the movies. In fact the movies have very little to do with 'real' life. The vain hope that a Senate Committee can wave a magic wand and make 'all well' is risible. Both the facts and history deny any such 'Cinderella' outcome. Actually, going on past history, Cinderella is, as likely as not, going to be fined for have foot odour and athlete's foot while visiting the local swimming pool; thus creating a public 'health scare' – much to the delight of the local Chemist (who lodged the complaint). You can of course see the plot.

I would, without hesitation, back 'the Law' over the 'Senators' in a one horse race. Look at it this way – CASA may – perhaps – just maybe win the overall 'legal' case – but that is unlikely. So, at the end of the shift – Buckley toddles off, after bills and 'square up' about break even; maybe a couple ahead. Then what?

Why nothing has really changed; has it. Buckley is paid off, shut down and the Senators are off the hook – easy- peasy. Game set and match to CASA – as is. The incumbent minister free and clear, the DoIT not troubled, CommCare writes off the payment without a care in the world – and nothing – as in Sweet Fanny Adams has really changed.

So, seriously, boys and girls, what do you imagine is needed to make any dent, whatsoever, in the CASA armour? Look at the list, study the history, grieve over the real results – for you live, and pay for those every day, supporting the cost of CASA victories.

This is the question I put to the BRB this evening (prior darts). The answer unequivocal. “There needs to a single case; one which will forever damn CASA to the Halls of Hell; from which, like the legendary Phoenix, 'aviation business' can rise from the ashes.

But from where can such a damning case be mounted? One that will, once and for all time put a full stop to the words “aviation safety”. No idea, non at all – but rest assured we are looking for the 'spike' to drive into that dark, devious heart and end this macabre pantomime. MTF?  Oh, I'd say so. The 'Bard' is my lad's metier – but I may borrow a portion, occasionally:-

“If thou wilt weep my fortunes, take my eyes.

I know thee well enough. Thy name is Gloucester.

Thou must be patient. We came crying hither.

Thou know’st the first time that we smell the air

We wawl and cry. I will preach to thee. Mark me.”

I see nothing but beers following more angry, futile heartbreak to once again commiserate those who have not been kissed on the arse by the CASA gods. But, I can wait, and wait until the blessed government have the scales of CASA generated fear removed from their eyes.

“What does reason know? Reason only knows what it has succeeded in learning...” (Dostoevsky)

Yup, I know – the quotes' but I did have a little to with his 'education'. Yes. It is your round my boy – my duty is done. Handing over...........