The Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union has joined calls for an independent inquiry into claims the Defence Department knew construction at its Williamtown base would spread groundwater contamination.
The AMWU says it’s unacceptable workers may have been exposed to harmful chemicals, while contaminated water was pumped off base, during construction of the multi-million dollar expansion, which is linked to the new Joint Strike Fighter.
“It is time for Defence Minister Marise Payne to account for what her department knew about the risks involved in the expansion of the RAAF base and to determine who was responsible,” NSW Secretary Tim Ayres said.
The Union says workers have a right to go to work without having to fear their health my be compromised.
The Minister’s office has been contacted for comment.
