The Tribune`s support of the proposal to raise top federal employees`
salaries by 75 percent was disappointing. Morale among other federal employees is at an all-time low.
Most federal employees received no salary increase in 1986 and will receive a meager 3 percent increase in 1987. Their salaries now lag behind those of the private sector by more than 24 percent. Benefits have been cut and more cuts are being proposed by the Reagan White House.
The quality of government turns first on the quality of the general federal work force. Egregiously disparate treatment of top officials will further erode general morale and adversely affect public service.
Let us see support for fair treatment of all federal employees in the interest of excellent service to the public.
