GILCHRIST ALSO SPYING ON UNIONS

Despite attempts by Prime Minister John Key to downplay the activities of police spy Rob Gilchrist, the affair continues to gather momentum.

Unite union leader Matt McCarten has released emails that Gilchchrist sent to the Special Investigation Group (SIG).

These emails detailed activities being organised by the union as part of their push to abolish youth pay rates and increase the minimum wage.

These emails are yet more evidence that Police Commissioner Broad has been telling tales. It is clear that Gilchrist was spying on a wide range of organisations, including political parties, unions and activist groups - and it appears that his 'handlers' never reined him in.

Gilchrist also forwarded the SIG an email from activist Simon Oosterman, in which Oosterman asked him to be a witness in his case against police for misusing pepper spray. That email was covered by litigation privilege.

Gilchrist subsequently served as a witness in the case.