From the CFMEU:

Islanders Bashed and Used as Slaves

Five young Cook Islanders imported into Australia on individual contracts with the promise of a better life were instead used as slave labour and allegedly bashed viciously by their employer.

One of the five boys, Sam Kautai, came to Australia as a 17 year old and for 18 months worked 12 hour days, six days a week for Manuel Puruto of Freliesma Guttering, who engaged him under an individual contract.

Sam received only $50 per month in payment and was allegedly beaten regularly, including with a hammer, and suffered numerous horrific injuries including blindness in one eye, blurry vision in the other eye, partial deafness, a broken nose, jaw and teeth, severe scarring and neurological damage.

“I had a good opportunity to come to Australia because I heard it was good money,â€? Sam said. “The guy I was working for didn’t treat me well. He gave me a lot of damage on my body.â€?

The CFMEU is concerned that cases like this will become much more prevalent with the implementation of John Howard’s radical new ‘WorkChoices’ laws. CFMEU NSW Secretary Andrew Ferguson said, “Unfortunately, under John Howard’s ‘Workchoices’, this type of exploitation and abuse of young workers and immigrant workers is becoming more widespread.”

Fundraiser for Cook Island boys

Sam has been left with massive medical bills and the other boys are struggling to find jobs and rebuild their lives. The CFMEU, in conjunction with the Pacific Islander community, are holding a fundraising dinner.

WHEN: 7pm – Saturday 11 March 2006

WHERE: Belmore Bowling Club, Leyland Pde, Belmore

COST: Adults $20, Children $10, Under 5yrs FREE

To order tickets or make a donation phone the CFMEU on (02) 9749 0400