Tasmanian trade unionists gathering peacefully to support locked out workers have been attacked by a manager who backed his car into a barbecue being held outside company headquarters.
A pair of union officials escaped with minor injuries, but also suffered death threats and a physical assault by the owner of A1 trees, Lee Winwood. The incident happened just after 7am and was captured on video. A1 Trees is a contractor to Tas Networks, the state owned electricity company. An email to the union reveals Tas Networks directed A1 Trees to lock the workers out of their workplace. CEPU Tasmania Secretary, Mick Anderson, said the violent incident had been reported to police. “This is simply unacceptable violent intimidation by a manager who has lost control and lost perspective,” Mr Anderson said. “It is disgraceful that the personal safety of trade unionists is threatened simply for standing up for the right to collectively bargain. “Unfortunately the fish rots from the head. When a company like Tas Networks encourages a contractor to lock out their workers, it effectively gives the green light for intimidation. Making matters worse is that Tas Networks was informed of this matter today and has failed to take action. “A1 trees must be brought to heel. If Tas Networks can’t do it, then it’s time the Premier intervened.” ETU National Secretary Allen Hicks condemned A1 Trees. “This is one of the worst cases of industrial intimidation I have witnessed. It’s unacceptable and must be completely repudiated.” Mick Anderson (Secretary)
