Irish workers ‘exploited’ in Australia says union

An Australian trade union leader has said a growing number of Irish workers are being exploited — and often by their countrymen.

Dave Noonan, Construction and General National Secretary of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), said some Irish migrants were often “under pressure” not to complain about poor pay or conditions.

Mr Noonan said Irish workers — either in Australia on working Holiday Visas or under the skilled migration 457 visas — have come to the attention of his union because of pay and entitlements being withheld by employers.