Image related to UN body slams Rudd Govt's construction laws
Created Thu 11/03/2010, Last Updated Thu 11/03/2010

UN body slams Rudd Govt's construction laws

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has found the Rudd Government’s construction industry laws breach international labour standards by targeting workers, and their right to belong to unions, for prosecution in an unfair way.

In a report handed down this month, the ILO made a new ruling strongly criticising the role of Government Inspectors in the ABCC for abandoning their traditional role - which is, protecting workers and enforcing their legal entitlements.

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Image related to International Women's Day - celebrate women in construction
Created Mon 8/03/2010, Last Updated Mon 8/03/2010

International Women's Day - celebrate women in construction

The CFMEU marks International Women’s Day – March 8 – by drawing attention to the achievements of women in the Australian construction industry, and encouraging more women to pursue a career in construction.

“Women work at all sorts of jobs in this industry,” said Dave Noonan, CFMEU National Construction Secretary.  “They are crane operators, carpenters, scaffolders and painters. They operate heavy plant on civil jobs and are increasingly involved in Australia’s resource sector – both as tradespersons and labourers.

“Listen to the stories on this website to discover the kinds of opportunities available and what women think about working in the Australian construction industry.”

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Image related to Insulation debacle shows need for tough OHS laws
Created Mon 1/03/2010, Last Updated Mon 1/03/2010

Insulation debacle shows need for tough OHS laws

The last few weeks have seen a focus on the insulation industry debacle and on the deaths of four young workers. Every workplace death is a tragedy for the family concerned and the union extends its condolences to the families of the workers.

The other thing that we have seen is a tremendous amount of posturing by politicians about the roof insulation matter. We’ve been forthright in our criticism of the Commonwealth Government and of the failings of the scheme; but the sight of Tony Abbott accusing Peter Garrett of industrial manslaughter makes me sick.

Read More of Dave Noonan's Message.

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