Bronwyn Jennings, Geelong

PM John Howard had to cut and run on May 28 when he was confronted by workers protesting the federal government’s anti-worker changes to the industrial relations laws. Howard was in Geelong to announce funding for the Geelong bypass road.

Around 400 construction, manufacturing, waterside, council, university and office workers turned out with just one hour’s notice to let Howard know that what his government is attempting to do to workers is not acceptable.

Howard’s security service was taken by surprise and delayed Howard attending the function for an hour, after which the event was cancelled and moved to an undisclosed location.

Tim Gooden, Geelong Trades Hall secretary, said: “Workers are outraged about the changes to IR laws that will remove most of their rights and protection. We came here today to tell Howard that it is not on.”

Howard “does not have the guts to face us”, said Gooden. “This proves that he is not doing workers any favours, but rather that he intends to make workers suffer so that his mates in big business can fatten their pockets with more profits off the backs of workers.”

From Green Left Weekly, June 1, 2005.
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