Michael Kilgariff

The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) says the illegal blockade of Webb Dock at the Port of Melbourne by members of the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) and the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) is merely a taste of the industrial mayhem that would be unleashed if their plans to merge proceed.

"These events are reminiscent of the bad old days on the Australian waterfront, with the MUA and the CFMEU undertaking pickets based on spurious grounds, and operating in the misguided belief that they are above the law," says ALC managing director, Michael Kilgariff.

"ALC is deeply concerned that if the MUA and CFMEU are allowed to merge into a militant mega-union, the sort of wilful illegality we are now witnessing at Webb Dock will spread throughout the nation, and across our supply chains."

"The actions of the MUA and the CFMEU at Webb Dock are not only an attack on businesses, but on the entire community. Fresh produce is rotting on the wharf, and merchandise that includes Christmas gifts for children is unable to move," Kilgariff adds.

The current dispute was sparked by the MUA accusing port operator Victoria International Container Terminal of targeting a member who was denied shifts after taking action against management for alleged harassment and bullying.