The blogosphere is pulsating with commentary about the Australian Health Services Union and whether or not Federal MP Craig Thomson has or hasn't done anything wrong. Allegations of misspending on unsavoury 'private' services with union credit cards are distasteful and fairly or unfairly, "mud sticks". However the vast majority of the manufacturing workers I spoke with today saved their vitriol for giant business.

They spoke from the growing divide between those who have billions, (they were particularly dismissive of mining and forestry magnates) and those who fit in with the poor working class or worse, tragically and unacceptably, reside in abject poverty. Unions have performed an essential role throughout our labour history. They've had to fight for what should not have experienced to become fought for. However they don't have a moratorium on ethical practice. They don't always keep the so and so's honest. Sometimes it's the delegates and officials who require keeping honest.

fagforening

I've worked across several sectors for 20 years. I have seen the whole gamut such as the employer trying to create flexibility in the workforce to remain afloat, nimble or competitive simply to be sabotaged by union representatives serving their own self-interest. I've seen hate campaigns (i.e. vicious bullying) mounted against managers running legitimate change agendas even where this might put long-term worker employment in jeopardy (as often those divisions were eventually sold off or closed down). This is holding a line that fails to take into account the main issue.

I've seen incompetent and/or unscrupulous managers who commoditise their people and put them under impossible strain. I've also seen delegates around the factory floor threaten and marginalise people pleased to do a reasonable day's work with an acceptable day's pay. I understand completely the resentment of workers who see executives getting rich off what's perceived to be worker exploitation. However while too many Australians may really be doing it tough and be understandably envious, it's not a crime to be wealthy. Union members are entitled to be represented by people sincere about hearing them and advocating for them; to not pursue their very own agenda and never to protect the indefensible. Corruption isn't exclusive to big business. For people to carry on to determine the relevance and performance of their unions, members need to fight for morality inside their own union community or we will have membership decline further. Employers and unions must ethically discharge their duties and be seen to become.