Fremantle wharfies' picket stays strong
By Sean Martin-Iverson
FREMANTLE--Protest action continues on the Fremantle docks despite a brutal paramilitary-style attack by police at 2.30am on April 16. The baton-wielding police outnumbered protesters two to one. When protesters offered passive resistance, they were dragged several hundred metres away. Seven people were detained, but later released without charge.
Later that day, hundreds of Builders Labourers Federation members marched to the site to a rousing welcome. The police barrier was pushed back several hundred metres by the swelling crowd and the protesters were able to prevent trucks from entering Patrick's wharf.
Hundreds of people, including representatives of other unions, students, churches and community organisations in WA, are maintaining the picket. They vow that no truck will cross the line and that any violence from the large number of police present (including a Tactical Response Team) will be met with peaceful but strong resistance.
