The CFMEU Manufacturing Division has welcomed Minister Tony Burke’s announcement that members will have the opportunity to vote on their future within the union.
Manufacturing Division members will now determine if they want to remain part of the CFMEU, the union said in a news release.
Minister Burke highlighted the dysfunction within the CFMEU, stating that the current situation cannot continue.
CFMEU Manufacturing National Secretary Michael O’Connor expressed support for the government’s decision.
“We welcome this, the government is doing the right thing, they have listened to us and are respecting the good judgment of our members,” he stated.
O’Connor emphasised that members in sectors such as floorcovering, cabinetry and joinery, glass and glazing, installation and shopfitting, timber and wood products, pulp and paper, furniture, textile, clothing and footwear, and building products and materials manufacturing deserve to decide how they want to be represented.
“This government has a good track record of backing workers’ rights, and this is no exception,” he said.
Furthermore, the Manufacturing Division said it is now prioritising the voting process.
“We will be encouraging every member to vote in the secret ballot and ensure they are fully informed of the benefits of the Manufacturing Division becoming independent of the CFMEU,” O’Connor stated.
According to the union, it applied to the Fair Work Commission over two years ago to put the demerger question to members.
Despite attempts by the CFMEU Construction Division to block the vote, support has come from a Private Members Bill introduced by Senator Jacqui Lambie, facilitating this vote.
Last year, the Mining and Energy Union held a similar vote, with 98 per cent of members voting to leave the CFMEU.
“Our members will now get the same opportunity as mining and energy workers got last year, to determine the future of their union,” said O’Connor.
O’Connor thanked Senator Lambie and Minister Burke for supporting the Manufacturing Division’s pursuit of independence.
“We thank Senator Lambie and Minister Burke for backing us and giving our members an opportunity for a brighter future outside of the CFMEU, enabling a more respected and active role in the labour movement.”
