TAVIUNI HELD UP.

Press, Volume L, Issue 14886, 28 January 1914, Page 5

TAVIUNI HELD UP.

TROUBLE WITH FIREMEN. (press association - telegram.) WELLINGTON. January 27. A difference of opinion has arisen between the Unifin Steam Ship Company and the firemen in regard to the manning of the coastal cargo steamer Taviuni. The vessel, arrived here on Sunday last from tjic South and vas to have sailed yesterday for New Plymouth and the West Coast. Yesterday morning, however, one of the firemen sigued off the vessel's articles, and the company has since been unable to Jill the vacancy. Enquiries as to the reason for this were made, by a "Post" reporter,'and it was learned that the firemen are requesting the provision of an extra hand in the stokehold. The legal complement i* three firemen and two trimnsors. aud this, it is stated, has proved satisfactory to both sides in the past. Xow the riipn are asking for six firemen and no trimmers. They say that the vessel needs that number, but the Union Company denies the pointstrongly. It is maintained that Tavmni is an easy ship to work. Xhe Union Company refuses to give way, and it looks as though tho boat will be held up She was to go to an anchorage in the stream this afternoon. It is believed that the men would not refuse to go to sea if the present vacancy was filled, but obstacles have been placed in the way of the company in its endeavour to secure a fireman. There are plenty out of work, so a reporter was informed, but they refuse a berth on the Taviuni. Mr Young informed a reporter that he "knew nothing of the matter," and would refuse to say anything if he did know.