UPDATE: Shocking allegations have emerged that Queensland Police may have signed a secret “memorandum of understanding” with the CFMEU to abstain from intervening in escalating industrial disputes. This claim was made during a critical inquiry into the CFMEU and its conduct in the construction industry, raising urgent concerns about law enforcement’s role in labor conflicts.
On October 25, 2023, barrister Geoffrey Watson revealed startling details, stating that police had agreed not to act in disputes involving the CFMEU and its rival, the Australian Workers Union (AWU). Watson expressed disbelief at the reported deal, suggesting it effectively stripped police of their jurisdiction during industrial conflicts. “It was almost as if the police would stop at the boundary of an industrial dispute,” he stated during the inquiry, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Multiple video instances of CFMEU members harassing AWU delegates at construction sites were presented, showcasing physical confrontations occurring in broad daylight, with police seemingly absent. One incident escalated into a brawl that spilled onto the street, halting traffic without any police presence.
“The memorandum of understanding – that I saw – which was in effect to mean that they (the police) had no jurisdiction once it became an industrial dispute,” Watson underscored, highlighting potential implications for public safety and law enforcement integrity.
In response, the Queensland Police Union dismissed Watson’s claims as “offensive,” asserting that their officers are committed to upholding the law. Union president Shane Prior stated, “Mr. Watson is wrong to suggest the QPU has signed any agreement with the CFMEU,” emphasizing that police would never compromise their integrity.
Watson’s allegations also pointed to a calculated campaign by the CFMEU to eliminate the AWU from construction sites, aiming to monopolize labor amidst ongoing shortages. “If you knock out the AWU, you know what you’re knocking out? The competition,” he warned, indicating that such a monopoly could jeopardize major projects, including venues for Brisbane 2032 and the proposed Macquarie Point AFL Stadium in Hobart.
Moreover, the inquiry unveiled instances of intimidation, with threats directed towards AWU members and their families. One AWU member reported being harassed with threats that included knowledge of his children, while CFMEU organizer Blake Hynes allegedly threatened an AWU official by revealing a tattoo supposedly linking him to the Bandidos bikie gang.
Watson asserted that the CFMEU’s aggressive tactics were already impacting the construction landscape, causing firms to avoid Brisbane due to fears stemming from the union’s behavior. “You look at the building sites here and you’ll see a limited number of companies engaged in construction work,” he noted, warning that diminished competition could lead to higher labor costs.
The inquiry, which follows Watson’s earlier report exposing a troubling culture within the CFMEU, has ignited widespread concerns about the intersection of law enforcement and labor disputes in Queensland. The implications of these revelations could resonate throughout the industry, impacting projects and employment dynamics across the region.
As the inquiry progresses, all eyes will be on the findings and subsequent actions. Will authorities take steps to address these serious allegations, and how will this affect the ongoing industrial landscape? Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
