Rex Patrick (SA, Centre Alliance) | Hansard source

Mr President, I seek leave to make a short statement in relation to threats made by a CFMMEU official towards me, Senator Griff and Senator Lambie over the weekend.

Leave is granted.

Senators may be aware of media reports over the weekend relating to threats made to me, Senator Griff and Senator Lambie by Mr Setka in relation to a pending vote in this chamber on the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Amendment (Ensuring Integrity) Bill 2019. No senator should ever be threatened or intimidated in relation to a vote. Lobbied, challenged on the merits, presented with contrary views, and criticised? Yes. Threatened? No.

This is a very serious matter. Senators Griff, Lambie and I are giving careful consideration to what action we will take in relation to the threat. Under consideration are a number of options, including referral to the Privileges Committee, referral to the police, or inviting Mr Setka to appear before the Education and Employment Committee to explain his remarks. It will likely be a combination of these things. There should be zero tolerance for anyone who seeks to influence a senator's vote by way of threat. We cannot possibly leave this matter unattended.