Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Women) Share this | Hansard source

Yes, I can. As part of the bargaining, some employees took protected industrial action, as they were entitled to do. As we know, this is part of the lawful process.

Senator Kim Carr interjecting—

The CFMEU, however, allegedly prevented subcontractors engaged by the concrete firm from carrying out their lawful work. The Fair Work Building Commission alleges that workers trying to get to work were verbally abused and called 'effing scabs' and 'filthy dogs'. There are also allegations that Brian Parker, the CFMEU state secretary, repeatedly used his vehicle to block access to a concrete pump on the Harold Park site. We on this side of the chamber believe that workers should be free to go to work, to their workplace, without being subjected to threats, bullying or intimidation.

Opposition senators interjecting—

Sadly, and given all of the interjections, that is clearly not the view of those on the other side, who refuse to stand up to bullying. (Time expired)

Honourable senators interjecting—