Application For Sunday Concert Granted

Chronicle (Levin), 11 August 1949, Page 2

Application For Sunday Concert Granted

A recommendation by the works committee that an appiication from the Otaki-Rahui Greyhound Racing Club, to hold a Sunday night concert be approved, provoked considerable discussion at the Otaki Borough Council's meeting last night and a difference of opinion on the matter was evident. The Mayor, Mr. C. F. Atmore, said that requests for concerts _tc augment war memorial and patriotic funds had been approved. He felt, however, that the recommendation of the works committee on this occasion opened up a new channel; and he feare'd the council would be establishing a precedent that it might regret at some future date. It was a matter of policy,.he added. The council had not previously granted permits for the purpose of enabling organisations to augment their own funds. He felt also that the position . oi church-going people shou'd be considered. "We may not be giving support to. the influence that the various churches exercise, and this council should not do anything to weaken the strength . of the churches," concluded Mr. Atmore. Cr. McKiniey stated that the appiication further stressed the need for a hall in Otaki, adding that Sunday was the only night that the theatre was available at a cheap rental. Cr. Cook said that he was sympathetic towards the club's efforts, but felt that on this occasion they shou7d be asked to submit another night, adding that the sport was not an amateur one. He felt that applications for Sunday night pictures, which had been declined previously, might follow. Cr. Hakaraia said that the applicants were a young club and were faced with a good deal of preliminary expense. Hence he supported the appiication. Cr. Ames said that the club was showing enterprise in trying to become established, and suggested that they be told not to commence until well after church services had concluded. Cr. Retter said that the performers were workers and could only' help on a Sunday. The appiication was granted, five voting for :-nd two against.