John Setka launches tirade against CFMEU administrators outside court
The former union boss spoke to reporters after facing a Melbourne court charged with using a telecommunications device to menace and offend.
Former CFMEU boss John Setka, 61, faced Melbourne Magistrates Court over allegations he used a telecommunications device to menace and offend. The charge stems from an Instagram post featuring images of former administrators Mark Irving and Matt McGowan. Outside court, Setka criticized the pair, calling them "ALP hacks" and accusing them of ruining the union with fabrications and lies.
Setka vowed to fight the charges, claiming he shouldn't face jail time for posting the truth, unlike others who commit more serious crimes. The union did not comment on behalf of McGowan, and Irving was contacted for comment. Setka, who served as CFMEU head for over a decade, was also charged with family violence-related offenses.
His defense team is seeking additional material from prosecutors, which they plan to object to. Setka's tenure saw allegations of underworld infiltration in major construction projects.
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