Rank and file member Ark Tribe is due back in court November 3, where he will find out if he is to be found innocent or guilty for standing up for his rights.

Charged for not attending an interrogation with the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), Ark faces a possible six months imprisonment as a result.

While all Ark's supporters are hoping he is found not guilty to the charges, the fundamental issues underlying the ABCC and this case still remain.

• Construction workers have no right to remain silent
• They have no right to use a lawyer of their choice
• They have no right to discuss their interrogation
• They can be imprisoned for 6 months for failing to cooperate with the ABCC

The ABCC and their extraordinary powers

Much of Ark Tribe's legal defence was about whether the ABCC had exercised its powers and functions legally or appropriately.

Throughout the hearing it became obvious that while Ark Tribe was on trial for failure to attend a hearing of the ABCC it was, in fact, the ABCC and its organisation and practices which should have been on trial.

Even the United Nation’s International Labour Organisation (ILO) has condemned the current Federal Government for maintaining these laws originally set up under John Howard.

In February, the ILO found the ABCC was biased against workers with laws targeting construction workers breaching convention on freedom of association and the right to organise. According to the ILO Australia now joins China, Burma and Colombia in denying workers their rights.

Ark's Park

The Ark Tribe Embassy will be at our newly appointed ‘Ark's Park’, Victoria Square in front of the court on Wednesday November 3, 8:30am. We expect a large turn out to hear the verdict and offer their support whatever the result. 

NSW, Sydney Rally

The Building Trades Group and Unions NSW have also unanimously endorsed a rally to be held 12pm on Wednesday November 3. We encourage all building workers to attend this rally and to allow sufficient time to assemble at Sydney Town Hall.

London Protest

There will also be a protest in support of Ark at the Australian High Commission, The Strand, London at 4.15pm on November 2. The London protest will pre-empt Ark's sentencing hearing as his case will be heard sometime after 11pm London time. Come and make your voice heard - stand up for union rights around the world and let them know - "Don't Jail Ark!"

Support, Sign, Follow, View

Show your support, Send a Message of support to Ark, follow us on Twitter or for more information view the Rights On Site website.