Taking a stance in support of CFMEU

FEBRUARY 8, 2018: LAST week’s super blue blood moon might have been a rare event, but may pale in comparison to myself and other LNP MPs today meeting and agreeing with CFMEU representatives: the Oaky North lockout must end.I was joined by my Central Queensland counterparts Michelle Landry and Ken O’Dowd and Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan, as well as the new Minister for the Workplace and Deregulation Craig Laundy for a meeting with CFMEU representatives Lachlan Jarrett and Chris Brodsky as well as Oaky North worker Mitche Wyatt.The CFMEU had the opportunity to present their case regarding the ongoing dispute at Oaky North mine.I reiterated to the ministers that I think the lockout needs to end.It’s now gone on for over 200 days, and the next outcome is that Minister Laundy is going to meet with Glencore in the very near future to discuss the stalemate.I also advised Minister Laundy that I am strongly of the opinion that this ongoing process of casualisation in the Bowen Basin is unacceptable.I am concerned that it is also the issue which lies at the heart of the Oaky North dispute.I am also seeking a follow-up meeting with Glencore management next week.