CEPU Votes to Break Away from ACTU
The Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union (CEPU), representing 100,000 workers, has voted to separate from the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU). This decision comes in response to the ACTU's support for government legislation forcing the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) into independent administration.
The CEPU's move stems from its disapproval of the ACTU's stance on the CFMEU, which has faced allegations of criminal infiltration, corruption, and bullying. The government introduced the legislation after concluding that the CFMEU would not comply with court-ordered administration.
The CEPU plans to hold a summit of blue-collar unions within the next three months to explore the establishment of a rival organization to the ACTU ahead of the next federal election. They aim to garner support from other ACTU-affiliated unions.
The ACTU expressed disappointment over the CEPU's decision, defending its position on the CFMEU. The union maintains that it urged the CFMEU leadership to take decisive action to address the allegations against them.
Other unions, including the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU) and the Mining and Energy Union (MEU), have reaffirmed their support for the ACTU. They believe the ACTU provides strong leadership and has achieved significant wins for workers. They also emphasize the importance of a united labor movement in Australia.
The CEPU and its subsidiaries have been contacted for comment.