Clover Moore supporters run the gauntlet
Guests at ‘Cocktails for Clover”, a fund-raising cocktail party at Parliament House, had to run a gauntlet of demonstrators and media as they arrived last Thursday evening, while one disrupted the event.
About 60 members of the Transport Workers Union on the footpath outside a security entrance waved flags and placards, shouting “Shame on Clover” and “Don’t let Clover do you over”.
One unionist got into the party and made a confronting speech before being removed by security. The incident was filmed on a phone camera.
The protest opposed the City’s recent change of contractors for garbage collection. ‘Garbos’ say they had to reapply for a job with the new contractor, URM, but found the pay was $200 a week less than they had been earning with Veolia, the previous contractor.
TWU spokesman Michael Aird said this was illegal and the union was considering legal action.
Protesters thrust A4 flyers at the arriving guests, many of whom refused them.
Most guests tried to avoid eye contact and entered as quickly as possible but one man smiled and quipped, “Yes, isn’t she wonderful” to the demonstrators.
The fund-raiser, with around 120 guests, was in aid of Ms Moore’s candidacy for the seat of Sydney at the state election next March. The cover charge was $150 or $250. During the night, guests won prizes donated by Sydney businesses.
Ms Moore’s state office did not respond when asked for comment about the protest. But in her online newsletter she thanked supporters who came to the dinner:
“Strong independent representation in our Parliament focusing on the needs of the community; accountable government; and an environmentally, socially and economically sustainable future is vital. These issues have long been central to my work and last night’s
warm support was inspiring, said Ms Moore.
by Michael Gormly
