BLF warning about code of practice slammed

22/10/93

Labour Relations Minister Graham Kierath says he is appalled at a reported warning to the Government from the Builders Labourers' Federation.

The Minister said unions and employers alike must obey the building industry's new code of practice - or face the consequences.

"If anyone thinks they can flout the law they are wrong," Mr Kierath said.

BLF secretary Kevin Reynolds was reported this week as saying his union would not stand for Government interference.

"I have news for them," Mr Kierath said.

"We will not stand for anyone breaking the law, overtly or by stealth.

"The Government has noted Mr Reynolds' comments and I remind him that Western Australia is the only State which has not deregistered the BLF.

"We will have no hesitation in taking such action if the union sets upon a course of lawlessness."

The code of practice, aimed at eliminating rorts and illegal practices in the building industry, could become effective within a fortnight.

It follows the Lovell Report which pinpointed WA as having the worst work practices in Australia.

Mr Kierath said it was hardly plausible for Mr Reynolds to claim the Lovell Report was biased.

"The BLF, by its own admission, refused to contribute to the inquiry and now it cries foul," the Minister said.

"The only thing that is foul is the state of the industry.

"The new code will help to clean it up."

Media contact: Casey Cahill 222 9595