Fair Work Vice-President Michael Lawler’s office has been inviting people to reject him hearing their cases. Mr Lawler’s associate has been sending an email advising parties in cases before him of the controversy surrounding his nine months of sick leave and his relationship with former union whistleblower Kathy Jackson. The email highlights the claims against the judge who oversees workplace disputes. “I have been asked to let you know this: Vice-President Lawler has been subject to extraordinary allegations against him in the Parliament which follow a series of newspaper articles also raising allegations,” the email says. “Do you object to Vice-President Lawler dealing with your matter?” Mr Lawler’s associate confirmed the emails. “For a short time he did instruct me to send these emails,” his associate said. “After consulting with three of his peers he came to the view the position was not warranted and no more contact to parties was made.”
