ENGINE-DRIVERS

Dominion, Volume 13, Issue 263, 31 July 1920, Page 8

ENGINE-DRIVERS

WORK OF ANNUAL CONFERENCE. The animal conference of tho New Zealand Engine-drivers' Federation concluded yesterday. It was decided to make an endeavour to secure direct representation on tho Board of Examiners. The Minister is to bo urged to confer upon union secretaries (within certain limits) the power given .to inspectors under section 54 of tho Inspection-of Machinery Act. An endeavour is to be made to include the word "winze" in the definition of machinery affected by the 1914- amendment of tho Act. Conference decided to ask for a. repeal of section 45 of the Act. so as to abolish service certificates. The executive council of the federation was given full power, to formulate a, sohemo for closer alliance with the Locomotivo Engine-drivers, Firemen, and Cleaners' Association. As a means for providing greater protection for life and property, it was decided to urge the Government to inspect all electrical appliances in mines: and buildings. It is also requested that no further permits should be issued to uncertificated drivers, and that all existing permits bo cancelled. A stiffening of the examination for second-class certificates- tms deemed advisable. Conference also urged in amendment, of the Shipning and Seamenjs Act on tho lines of the Australian Navigation Act, and providing for coastal engineers' certificates. No trawler, it was held, no matter what tha horse-power, should be allowed to proceed fo tho fishing grounds without a certificated engineer in charge. A deputation from the ronferenro will wait on the Minister of Marino (Sir William HerriesO at 10 o'clock this morning.