VIC: Rally disrupted as separate factions break off

AAP General News (Australia)
08-12-1999
VIC: Rally disrupted as separate factions break off

A major union rally has erupted into absolute confusion in Melbourne's city centre, with
rival factions staging separate protests.

A large part of the protest march against the federal government's second stage of
industrial legislation changes has broken away from the organised route.

March leaders, including ACTU president JENNIE GEORGE and federal Opposition Leader KIM
BEAZLEY, have been left standing on a street corner, with their official protest blocked.

Police say they've been powerless to prevent the breakaway group from the Australian
Manufacturing Workers Union blocking the main event.

AAP ag/sp/er/wjf/jn

KEYWORD: PROTEST CONFUSION (MELBOURNE)

1999 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.