A Liberal MP is calling out the Victorian government’s shutdown of the construction industry after violent protests erupted in front of CFMEU offices.

The two-week shutdown was sparked by a high number of cases connected to the building sites and low rates of compliance with COVID restrictions across the sector.

The move was announced after tradies protested against mandatory vaccinations.

Victorian Liberal MP Tim Smith told Chris Smith the shutdown was in response to the protest.

“This is the collective punishment of the many for the misdeeds of the few.

“That’s the real truth of this.”

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