Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs Victorian Opposition Leader John Pesutto this week called on Premier Jacinta Allan to make public all allegations of CFMEU misconduct that had previously been referred to government ministers.Victorian Opposition Leader John Pesutto.Credit: Arsineh HouspianHe also called for union members to be banned from the building industry consultative council and for the government to support the opposition’s proposal to effectively ban construction companies whose employees have links to organised crime and outlaw motorcycle gangs from winning lucrative government contracts.“These are very reasonable but necessary steps that the premier can take,” Pesutto said on Wednesday.State government ministers have been forced to defend what they knew and when, but the Victorian government did not answer questions by deadline on Wednesday.Labor figures have been keen to point out that construction is a deadly and dangerous industry and that the union’s work has improved conditions.Smith, in his update to members on Wednesday, said the union members were not fools.“Most of those decrying the union as a monster have no idea what it’s like to work in this industry, and they certainly haven’t bothered to ask any CFMEU members,” he wrote.“They’ve never thought about what it’s like to see a mate killed or injured onsite.“They’ve never thought about what it’s like to arrive at work at 5am and find out the boss who owes you thousands has mysteriously gone into liquidation.”LoadingHe said that those arguing the CFMEU had increased construction costs were effectively saying members should be earning less.“They don’t think you should be able to provide your family with a decent life,” Smith wrote.“So, yes, I take criminality incredibly seriously. I am determined to stamp it out. But I will also never ever apologise for the important work this union does.”Get the day’s breaking news, entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy. Sign up to receive our Evening Edition newsletter here.
