Skills Shortages
RUDD GOVERNMENT SHOULD REJECT CFMEU 457 VISA PROPOSAL
July 25, 2008
The Coalition today called on the Rudd Government to reject the calls of the CFMEU for unions to vet 457 visa sponsors.
'The CFMEU proposal for unions to be consulted before employer sponsorships are approved for the 457 visa will increase red tape and delays for business,’ said Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Ellison.
Where Australian labour is not available it is critical that employers are able to access skilled overseas labour.
Senator Ellison said if Australian business is not able to access the skilled labour they need it will put Australian jobs at risk.
'The CFMEU is proposing to introduce new productivity constraints on business, Prime Minister Rudd and Immigration Minister, Senator Chris Evans should today reject this proposal’ said Senator Ellison.
