smh.com.au
CFMEU expels gangland figures, addresses violence against women
The CFMEU's Victorian delegates unanimously voted to expel gangland figures and bikies from the union, implementing stricter shop steward requirements and supporting initiatives to combat violence against women following revelations of payments to underworld figures and violence on worksites.
- What immediate actions did the CFMEU take to address gangland involvement and violence against women in the construction industry?
- The CFMEU national secretary, Zach Smith, secured unanimous support from 500 Victorian delegates to remove gangland figures and bikies from the union, following revelations of payments to figures like Mick Gatto from Big Build contractors. This comes after disgraced former Victorian boss John Setka defended Gatto, and amidst reports of violence against women on worksites.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of the CFMEU's reforms on the construction industry's culture and the safety of its workers?
- The new measures, including stricter requirements for shop steward appointments and a commitment to combatting workplace violence against women, aim to prevent future criminal infiltration and misconduct within the CFMEU. The ongoing investigations and potential class-action lawsuit highlight the systemic nature of these problems and their long-term implications.
- How did revelations of payments to underworld figures and the involvement of bikies influence the CFMEU's decision to reform its practices?
- This decision follows reports of violence against women and the infiltration of the construction industry by criminal elements, including bikies and figures linked to organized crime. The unanimous support reflects growing concern within the union and the broader community about the issue, pushing for significant changes within the union.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the story largely through the lens of Zach Smith's success in pushing through reforms. The headline and opening paragraphs emphasize his leadership and the unanimous support he received. This positive framing might overshadow the severity and systemic nature of the problem, downplaying the scale of the criminal infiltration and the long-term damage inflicted on the industry and its workers. The emphasis on Smith's actions could create the impression that the issues are largely resolved or under control.
Language Bias
The article uses strong, emotive language to describe the actions of certain individuals and groups. Terms like "gangland players," "disgraced former boss," "underworld's infiltration," and "criminal elements" are used frequently, painting a negative picture. While these terms accurately reflect the alleged activities, the repeated use of such strong language contributes to a biased tone. More neutral language, such as 'individuals with criminal connections' or 'alleged criminal activity', could be considered.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the CFMEU's internal reforms and the actions taken by its national secretary, Zach Smith. While it mentions external calls for law reform and a class-action lawsuit, it doesn't delve deeply into the specifics of these external actions or provide details on the extent of the problem beyond the Victorian branch. The perspectives of building companies and the broader industry are largely absent, limiting a complete understanding of the issue. The article does mention government responses but does not analyze their effectiveness or potential shortcomings.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between the CFMEU's efforts to reform and the criminal elements within the industry. It suggests a clear division between the 'good' union members pushing for change and the 'bad' actors who are undermining it. The reality is likely more nuanced, with varying degrees of involvement and complicity among different union members and factions. This simplification could oversimplify the complex web of relationships and motivations within the industry.
Gender Bias
The article highlights instances of violence and harassment against women in the construction industry. It specifically mentions a female CFMEU member who was assaulted and blacklisted and the creation of a resolution supporting women in the industry. The focus on these issues shows a willingness to address gendered violence; however, there's limited analysis of underlying gender dynamics within the union's structure or broader industry culture. More nuanced exploration of gender roles and the causes of gender-based violence could improve the article.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a significant effort to remove criminal elements from the construction union, promoting justice and stronger institutions within the industry. This directly contributes to SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. The union's actions to address corruption, violence, and intimidation are key steps toward achieving these goals.