THE BUSH FIRES

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 158, 23 March 1918, Page 8

THE BUSH FIRES

EXTENT OF THE DAMAGE

AN OFFICIAL REPORT

'GOVERNMENT'S INTENTIONS

MORE EXCITING EXPERIENCES,

The following telegraphic report on the damage caused by the bush fire has been sent to the Prime Minister by the Hon. D. H. Guthrie, who has been ou the spot from the timo that the disaster occurred:—

The area affected by the fire includes the .Raetihi township, where fifty-eight bouses havo been burnt. Most of these are residences, and the occupiers have no chance of .finding homes until rebuilding can take place. I think that in these cases the full privileges of Workers' Dwellings Act should be extended, and, if necessary, extra financial . assistance granted. Sawmills.—Nine mills have been burnt, but as yet I havo had no.indication that financial assistance will be sought. Tho loss of these mills will dislocate labour conditions; but it appears to me there will be ample room for the absorption of all unemployed. The milling bush is seriously damaged by fire, but not to, an alarming extent.

Farms.—The damage is both extensive and very serious. Cannot as yet form any accurate estimate of loss of stock, but every indications at present of heavy losses. Impossible as yet to ascertain what area is fire-swept, biit : districts most .affected are Raetihi, Waipuna, Maungaturoa, Parapara, Ruatiti, Mangatiti, Erua, Horopito, Makino, and valley roads. The Crown Lands Rangers and two reliable settlers started this morning to,make estimate of area to bo resown, and amount of seed required; report to be presented by Monday or Tuesday. Would advise that cocksfoot and clover seed bo procured at once. Understand merchants have already seriously advanced prices. If we can prevent it this shrfuld not be allowed. Forty thousand pounds of cocksfoot-may be required, a smaller quantity of .rye, up to two tons of clovers, and small guantity .of crested dogstail. This estimate can only be taken as 'a rough guide, to enable Department to purchase as early as possible, if Cabinet so decides. Suggest Government purohase and forward in bulk .to Raetihi store, and mix _here, and supply to settlers.; or, as an. alternative, allow-settlers to nmkn tteir own arrangements for seed, Government paying for same and giving terms for repayment by settlers. Assistance will also be required in procuring fencing wire, corrugated iron, or other roofing material.

The £500 granted by Government will alleviate all pressing cases of distress at present. Promises of financial assistance have been received from all parts of New Zealand. If necessary, I will furnish a reliable officer from the Lands Department to act with the local committee in supervising distribution of' Government and other aid in money and_ material.

Dairy factory destroyed, and Must be rebuilt. Suggest promise be made that Government money be. advanced to cover cost re-erection, also consideration of Government grant for portion of cost advisable.

Bridges.—Several bridges have been burnt down', and require to be dealt with as little, delay as possible. I will have particulars for the Public Works Department on my return to Wellington on Saturday.