CFMEU might merge with Textile union

1524

The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) has announced that it is negotiating with the Textile, Clothing and Footwear Union of Australia (TCFUA) over a possible merger.

Image credit: CFMEU

“We want our members’ future to be in the best possible union – one that is strong and effective. The CFMEU is a great union. We have chosen to enter into discussions with them because they are a union that campaigns for jobs as well as for workers’ rights and conditions,” TCFUA National Secretary Michele O’Neil said in a media release.

“The TCFUA is a campaigning union. It has campaigned around protecting and advancing the interests of some of the most vulnerable people in the community, particularly outworkers. They are a progressive union that supports policies designed to build a better, fairer and more progressive country,” said CFMEU National Secretary Michael O’Connor.

The announcement comes just a week after CFMEU revealed that it has begun negotiations with the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA), also over a possible merger.

“Our union has a long, proud 130 year history of being forward looking and fighting for our members. The world of work is changing – industries, the labour market and the nature of work are all changing and unions have to evolve too,” added O’ Neil.

“Any proposed merge would be put to a vote of TCFUA members. Once endorsed by the union membership, the unions would then proceed to meet requirements under the relevant industrial legislation.”