As someone who has fired unionized government employees, it takes following a process to the letter, knowing the union contracts, as well as the regulations of the agency. Documentation is essential, timely filing is essential, perseverance is essential. Patience is a main ingredient, as the steps of the process can sometimes take 2 years or more to play out.
If the employees actions justify their removal, it can be done., and the work place will be better for it.
Part of the solution to this is outlawing unions for public sector workers.
They work for the people, they don’t have a right to hold the public at ransom demanding more money.
This ranges from public school teachers to the DMV to VA workers.