ESSENTIAL WORKERS AND THE WAR

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 3029, 16 March 1917, Page 6

ESSENTIAL WORKERS AND THE WAR

» FARMERS' UNION SUGGESTIONS. By Tolegraph—Press Association. Auckland, March 15. . The question whether farmers who had volunteered or refused to appeal when drawn in the ballot should, under certain circumstances, be allowed to proceed on active service was discussed by tlie provincial executive of tho Farmers' Union to-day, and it was resolved: "That, before or niember of any other essential industry is finally enlisted, tho Efficiency Board should make a full inquiry into the case, and if it is found that his leaving the Dominion would seriously diminish tho production of foodstuffs or other essentials, such enlistment be not allowed."

The fact that at present there are between five and six thousand Dalmatians performing non-essential work in tile North Auckland gumfields led to the suggestion that their services might be utilised to a more effective purpose, and it was resolved: "That the Efficiency Board should give serious consideration to the wast© of labour on the gumfields with a view to utilising it in a more profitable direction." The mover suggested that the Dalmatians should be employed as farm labourers. If. was further resolved: "That alien or enemy subjects who are not considered available for service at the front should be conscripted and employed, under supervision, for public purposes, other thaiKWork at the front, as may be found most advisable."