CFMEU administrator hospitalised
The man tasked with reforming the militant CFMEU union Mark Irving KC has been hospitalised after reportedly undergoing cardiac surgery.
The 57-year-old underwent surgery due to a blocked artery, where surgeons inserted a stent to open the artery and ensure blood flow, The Australian reported on Monday.
A spokesperson for the administration said Mr Irving was 'recovering well'.
'He is expected to return to work next week. The work of the administration is continuing,' he said.
Newly installed Employment and Workplace Relations Minister Amanda Rishworth also shared her well wishes.
'I wish Mark all the best with his recovery and am reassured the administration's work will continue as planned until he returns,' she said. A spokesperson for the administration said Mark Irving was 'recovering well'. Alex Coppel Credit: News Corp Australia
Mr Irving was appointed the role in August 2024 after the Albanese government placed the union's construction and general division into administration following several allegations of union official using standover tactics, violence and corruption.
During his three-year term, he will receive a total salary package of $643,640 a year, or about $1.9m over his tenure.
The fees will be paid by union member fees, with some union heavyweights opposing the forced takeover.
In October, Nine newspapers reported Mr Irving had been subjected to death threats due to his work with the union, with a spokesperson for the administration saying it work 'will not be distracted or diverted'. Former CFMEU national boss Zach Smith announced he would be departing the union last week. NewsWire/ Aaron Francis Credit: News Corp Australia
Former CFMEU national chief Zach Smith also announced his departure from the union last week, a role he has held since March 2023.
In a statement to members, Mr Smith said it was a 'time for tough decisions' and said he could not 'do justice' as both national secretary and as the acting Victorian branch secretary, previously held by disgraced union boss John Setka.
He also described the administration as a 'tough chapter' in the CFMEU's 'proud history
'I have also decided that while I am willing to take responsibility for decision I make, I cannot be asked to take responsibility for decisions that are not mine,' he said.
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