CFMEU NSW Assistant Secretary Michael Greenfield resigns amid corruption charges, while the union head promises business as usual.
CFMEU NSW Assistant Secretary Resigns Amid Corruption Charges
Michael Greenfield, the assistant secretary of CFMEU NSW, has resigned from his position due to intense media and government scrutiny. His resignation came on Monday, effective immediately, citing severe pressure on his family and the negative impact of sensationalized media reports.
Michael Greenfield, who is 36 and the son of Darren Greenfield, has stepped down as assistant secretary of the CFMEU NSW branch. This resignation comes amidst ongoing legal issues. Both Michael and his father, Darren Greenfield, face serious charges related to bribery. They are accused of accepting bribes from an employer in exchange for awarding contracts on unionized construction sites. It’s important to note that no one has proven their guilt yet, but it’s unusual for leaders to stay in their roles under such serious allegations.
In his resignation statement, Michael Greenfield maintained his innocence regarding the bribery charges, which have been in the public eye since 2021. He mentioned that the relentless media coverage and government actions have placed unbearable stress on his family. He felt compelled to step down to protect his loved ones. Greenfield criticized the media for inflating and sensationalizing the issue, which he believes undermines his right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Michael Greenfield also stated that, due to legal restrictions and ongoing court proceedings, he would not be able to provide further comments on the matter. The Greenfields are scheduled to appear in a Sydney local court for a mention on August 27, with a committal hearing to follow next month.
The Australian government has also taken steps in response to the situation. Legislation was introduced in parliament to give the Fair Work Commission the power to force the CFMEU into administration. This move follows a detailed investigation by major media outlets, which revealed claims of the CFMEU being infiltrated by organized crime and bikies. This investigation also led to the resignation of John Setka, a prominent CFMEU leader from the Victorian branch.
CFMEU NSW Assistant Secretary Resigns Amid Corruption Charges
Michael Greenfield’s resignation is part of a larger wave of changes within the CFMEU. Darren Greenfield, who took on the role of CFMEU state secretary in 2018, is facing criticism from various quarters. Despite the serious charges, CFMEU national secretary Zach Smith has supported the Greenfields, asserting that they still have backing from the union’s members and management. Smith has promised to clean up the union but has continued to stand by the Greenfields.
This support contrasts with the views of ACTU secretary Sally McManus, who believes that all union officials facing credible corruption allegations should step aside. NSW Premier Chris Minns has also called for Darren Greenfield to resign, stating that it’s hard to see how he can continue in his role while facing such serious charges.
On the day Michael Greenfield resigned, Darren Greenfield addressed a meeting with union delegates, reassuring them that the union’s operations would continue as usual despite the turmoil.
In summary, the CFMEU NSW branch is currently experiencing significant upheaval. Michael Greenfield’s resignation under pressure and the ongoing legal issues for both Greenfields highlight the broader challenges facing the union, including increased government intervention and calls for leadership changes.
::Visit our Trending page to get more on recent news