Queensland laws to “ensure that there is no refuge in the state system” from a looming federal CFMEU crackdown will be introduced this week, Premier Steven Miles says.
State MPs returned to parliament on Tuesday for a fiery start to the second-last sitting week before October’s election, as the LNP pushed for stronger action against the union facing imminent administration.
While Miles appeared to commit to removing CFMEU members from state government boards, he strongly rebuked another suggestion from deputy opposition leader Jarrod Bleijie.
Premier Steven Miles, pictured in February, and Queensland’s state MPs have just six sitting days until parliament rises for the October 26 election.Credit: Jamila Toderas
Bleijie asked during question time whether Labor would support the reintroduction of laws requiring union officials give 24 hours’ notice before entering Queensland worksites.
In his response, Miles said Bleijie “might want to see construction workers die, but ... we do not”. He was forced to withdraw the comment under parliamentary rules.
“My mother was a workplace health and safety inspector. There is nothing more important than workers being able to call upon a representative immediately where there is an imminent risk,” he said.
“The answer to the question is yes”.
Steven Miles’ response to one question in parliament about whether he would remove CFMEU members from Queensland government boards.
“I will act on the CFMEU, but I will not use it as a stalking horse for bosses who want to run unsafe workplaces. I will not use it as a stalking horse to target unions or workers.
“We will take appropriate action, while we also Queensland workers safe.”