Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Minister for Employment) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Ruston for the question. There is overwhelming evidence that the CFMEU does not respect the rule of law. The CFMEU's Shaun Riordan has been seen filming workers who chose to return to work during a union strike—the same man who allegedly threatened to stab a security guard in the neck during an industrial dispute. Why are these threats and records necessary—to enhance work place safety or to intimidate those who might speak out against their thuggish agenda?

Fair Work Building and Construction Director Nigel Hadgkiss told the Senate estimates just last week that the only way his organisation can get intimidated victims of unlawful conduct to tell their story is through the use of compulsory powers. Australia has a choice as to whether or not it seeks to condone this sort of behaviour or to stand against it. (Time expired)