Conflict about union members being poached from divisions in the CFMMEU was an "elephant in the room", according to a witness in the court fight over the issue.
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Construction Forestry Maritime Mining and Energy Union national secretary Michael O'Connor wants to stop factional rival John Setka and 29 other officials "'poaching" members from his manufacturing arm.
Former union official Trevor Smith said he spoke with Mr O'Connor about the issue weeks before the impending court case.
The phone conversation centred on people "knocking off members" from other divisions, Mr Smith said.
"Members were being recruited by the incorrect division," he told the court on Thursday.
The court stoush involves members who are glaziers, floor installers and cabinet makers and what division of the union should have them.
There were 219 resignations from Mr O'Connor's manufacturing branch since August and they moved to the construction branch, it was revealed in the Federal Court on Wednesday.
The latest fight within the powerful union comes after Mr Setka was forced out of the Labor Party, also last August, following comments about family violence campaigner Rosie Batty.
He also pleaded guilty to harassing his wife, but controversially kept his union position.
The second day of the hearing continues.
Australian Associated Press
