PRIMARY PRODUCTION

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 6, Issue 17, 23 October 1942, Page 5

PRIMARY PRODUCTION

EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY AREA

MEETING OF DELEGATES

The Eastern Bay of Plenty Primary Production Council held a meeting in Wliakatane on Tuesday. Mr R. Ruddick (Taneatua), presided. Messrs Boon. Burnett, Butler, Mo Cready, McCracken, McDonald, Meredith, Mullins, Murray, Withy and the Secretary, Mr Alexander, representing Wliakatane were present. The secretary reported difficulty in securing office accommodation that would keep within their expenses allowance. It was decided that Mr Sullivan, M:P., be* requested to take the matter up with the department while in Wellington. The general activities were reviewed by Mr Alexander. It was mentioned that hardship and delay was encountered regarding release of reservists for farm assistance. The Army authorities had in hand a plan for the release of men for harvesting and shearing, and the list Avould be compiled from the lower grade reservists, with i>reference to married men. Cases of over supply of labour on some farms were mentioned, and it was decided to bring them to the notice of the authorities. In the interest of maintaining production, all farmers and farmhands drawn in the last ballot have had their position examined, and in most eases - recommendations sup-, porting their appeals will go farward to the Armed Forces Board. It was intimated that a deputation is to wait on the Board to consult in the matter of procedure for release of men urgently required for seasonal work. To hasten delivery of maize pliiciking machinery, the Ministry of Supplies liase been approached to grant a priority shipment licence. A local contractor has had one on order for some time. Eggs and sacks are two items that still have the attention of all Councils. Surplus supplies should still be offered for sale. From opinions expressed, it would appear that the Women's Land Service dbes not seem too popular: the response so far has been poor, the opportunity to do a National service, should have the attention of all wo-. men especially those between the ages of 20-H0 years. A few applications have been received from farmers for their services, also for school boys during their summer holidays. The fertiliser committee reported an unsatisfactory position hacl developed, and anomalies were conspicuous under the present system of allocation. Proposals Avere made for a survey of all properties to be classified into groups of Ist;' 2nd and 3rd grades; the data collected to be used as a basis for allotment. The main object in mind was the deterioration that was likely to oc-t cur in lower grade lands, if any further curtailment of supplies was encountered. A draft of the plan wTH be submitted to the National Council for their consideration and- if found practicable, should be introduced over all council areas. Miessrs Ruddick, Boon, Burnett and McCracken were appointed an executive committee to deal with urgent bus'iness between meetings.