The blogosphere is pulsating with commentary concerning the Australian Health Services Union and whether 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 majority of the manufacturing workers I spoke with today saved their vitriol for giant business.

They spoke of the growing divide between those who have billions, (these were particularly dismissive of mining and forestry magnates) and those who fit in with the poor working class or worse, tragically and unacceptably, live in abject poverty. Unions have performed an important role throughout our labour history. They've had to fight for which should never have experienced to become fought for. Nonetheless 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.

ESF

I've worked across several sectors for 25 years. I have seen the whole gamut like the employer trying to create flexibility in the workforce to stay afloat, nimble or competitive simply to be sabotaged by union representatives serving their own self-interest. I have 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 does not look at the main issue.

I have seen incompetent and/or unscrupulous managers who commoditise their people and put them under impossible strain. I've also seen delegates on the factory floor threaten and marginalise people pleased to do a reasonable day's work for an acceptable day's pay. I understand completely the resentment of workers who see executives getting rich off what is perceived to be worker exploitation. However while too many Australians may be doing it tough and become understandably envious, it isn't a crime to become wealthy. Union members are entitled to be represented by people sincere about hearing them and advocating for them; to not pursue their own agenda and not to defend the indefensible. Corruption isn't only at big business. For people to carry on to see the relevance and performance of the unions, members need to fight for morality inside their own union community or we will see membership decline further. Employers and unions must ethically discharge their duties and be seen to become.