Heated industrial relations skirmish

ALLEGATIONS of a heated construction site clash between union officials and health and safety officers in Cairns have been revealed.

Workplace Health and Safety inspectors went to the Cairns Performing Arts Centre site in early April this year where it is alleged an incident occurred between them and CFMEU members.

An Office of Industrial Relations spokesman said there was an ongoing independent investigation, centring on allegations made by both parties.

“WHSQ inspectors have a difficult job. Inspectors also deal regularly with highly emotive situations concerning worker safety,” the spokesman said.

“The Office of Industrial Relations is also considering a number of initiatives to further support inspectors who confront challenging behaviour on the job, regardless of the cause of such challenges.”

Minister for Industrial Relations Grace Grace said she was aware of the incident, which remained subject to an independent investigation.

Opposition Industrial Relations Minister Jarrod Bleijie said the case needed to be referred to the Australian Building and Construction Commission.

“Intimidating an inspector is a criminal offence with a maximum sentence of two years’ jail,” Mr Bleijie said.