Senior CFMEU figure John Perkovic sacked for allegedly accepting bribes
A senior CFMEU figure and ally of ousted leader John Setka has been sacked with the union administrator claiming to have uncovered explosive evidence.
A senior CFMEU figure who was a close mate of ousted leader John Setka has been sacked for allegedly accepting bribes.
The union’s administrator Mark Irving, KC, sent out a text message on Thursday confirming John Perkovic’s departure.
Mr Perkovic was promoted to head of the construction co-ordinator, overseeing powerful shop stewards, in July.
Now, less than four months later, he is gone
“John Perkovic has been dismissed by the Administration for accepting a series of bribes and other secret benefits from employers in the construction industry,” Mr Irving’s claimed in a text message to more than 500 CFMEU members.
“The Administrator has compelling evidence, including work emails confirming the conduct and admissions from Mr. Perkovic.”
Mr Irving said Mr Perkovic had been given a chance to defend himself.
“Mr Perkovic was given the opportunity to respond and has not been able to provide any acceptable explanation,” he wrote.
“Mr Perkovic’s position at the union is therefore untenable.”
A separate email was sent out to staff, outlining similar claims.
The removal of Mr Perkovic is a blow to the administration, given he was anointed to a prized role earlier this year.
A video of Mr Perkovic abusing a building industry inspector resurfaced when he was given the key role.
In the footage, Mr Perkovic told the employee of the Fair Work Building Industry Inspectorate that he was a “piece of shit” and was about to have a “heart attack”.
“You’re shitting yellow, you piece of sh-t,” he said in the video.
“Go f — ing brush your teeth next time, you piece of sh-t.”
Mr Irving was appointed to run the CFMEU after widespread reports that the union had been infiltrated by organised crime and bikies.
The New South Wales branch has recently dismissed organisers for allegedly meeting with former CFMEU members.
However, CFMEU Victorian secretary Zach Smith remains in his role despite meeting up with Mr Setka and organising secret meetings with underworld figure Mick Gatto.
A spokesman for Mr Iriving refused to comment when approached on Thursday.
More than 250 union organisers were made redundant when Mr Iriving was appointed last year.
