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Fight against draconian ABCCDate: 30 July 2008
Today, Victorian trade union delegates confirmed their deep anger at the continued existence of the undemocratic, anti-worker and anti-union Australian Building Construction Commission (ABCC) and resolved to intensify the fight to have it abolished along with the underpinning legislation and code. They also declared their support for the CFMEU's Noel Washington who is facing six months jail for defying the ABCC, and the delegates called for mass rallies on the day of his court hearing. Although the plight of Noel Washington was at the centre of today's delegates' meeting, it was recognised by everyone that the ABCC and all it stands for is an affront to justice and what Australians regard as fair in our society. This campaign is not just about justice for Noel and construction workers, but all workers. Singling out one section of the community based on the work they do and applying different laws to them is appalling, declared ACTU Secretary Jeff Lawrence, who spoke at the rally. The rights of building workers are linked to the rights of all workers, so this is a fight we must all join. Noel's "crime" was to refuse to be interrogated about a union meeting he attended off-site, in the workers' own time. Forty building industry workers lost their lives last year, CFMEU Secretary Dave Noonan told the delegates. The ABCC activities have created a climate of fear on work sites so that safety concerns are less likely to be reported and acted upon because workers are afraid they will be hauled in front of the ABCC to defend their actions. The experience of OHS rep Brodene Wardley was raised at today's rally. The ASU was represented at the rally with a couple of our delegates speaking in support of the motion. We also moved an amendment, which was accepted, that recognises the fact that the ABCC's activities are reaching into other industries beyond construction, for example, into local government. A date for Noel Washington's court hearing is yet to be announced but unions have been asked to be prepared to mobilise as soon as that day is announced.
Campaign to abolish the ABCC - what can you do?You can fax or email the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Workplace Relations Minister Julia Gillard, asking them not to wait until 2010 - ask them to abolish the ABCC and the related construction laws now.You can also text your support to Noel Washington on 0488 747 773 Further Information
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