The union movement has enlisted the opinion of an unlikely ally — the Catholic Church — in its campaign to make wage theft a crime.
Ms McManus's claim is a faithful account. Although Pope Francis didn't specifically say "wage theft", he did refer to examples that fall within the term's broad meaning. Strictly speaking, there is no agreed definition of wage theft. However, Fact Check takes it to mean deliberate non-compliance with legal obligations relating to employee entitlements — whether that's underpaying wages or withholding leave payments and superannuation. And the Pope said those "who don't pay" are committing a mortal sin. Indeed, Catholic doctrine makes clear that his admonition applies to intentional acts of greed or stinginess by employers. And the Catholic Bible shows Jesus took a similar view. So what's the punishment for a mortal sin? Without a good excuse — for example, ignorance or a pathological disorder — then the Catholic Church says sinners should brace for "eternal hell". That's unless, of course, they repent and promise to change their ways.
Fact check: Did the Pope declare wage theft a mortal sin that reaps eternal punishment?
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