PREFERENCE FOR RETURNED SOLDIERS

Dominion, Volume 15, Issue 42, 12 November 1921, Page 8

PREFERENCE FOR RETURNED SOLDIERS

Sir,—l have been waiting for an abler pen than mine to take up the cause of the returned soldier “on the sjyag,” looking for work. I am a settler on a main road and can write truthfully on the matter. I often have these men in for a “shake down”—in rare cases they ask for food. ’ls this right that these men, who were promised so much by impulsive members on the spur of tho moment, but in reality given so little, should be in this position? It' is a great piece of short-sightedness on someone’s part bringing more and more emigrants into an already overcrowded country, when we cannot find employment for our own. Friday is Armistice Day, and .for two minutes we are asked to think of those who have “gone west.’’ We will do that because it costs us nothing. A better and more fitting way would bo to think of their living comrades. Those that have gone are provided for. When each reinforcement went out they were promised every consideration on their return, but that was when the bands were ploying. etc. These men have served their purpose, so let them take pot luck. I know how harassed the Government is just now. but where is their association? R S.A unions, do your share: Make one of your rules preference to returned men, unions or not. Girls, do yours. Give up vour offices, etc., and. go into domestic duties —a knowledge which will always stand you in good stead. One’s disgust knows no bounds when one sees advertise, ments like tho following :-“Wanted a land girl.” This was all very well when the Great War was on, but now get back to your proper places and leave such jobs for their rightful owners-the returned soldier. As I have dared to voice my opinion in this way, I suppose I snail be criticised from all quarters, but I am fully prepared to stand by uhat. I lune written—that there are far too many returned soldiers out of employment. 1 do not care who or what a man is, it he has fought for this country he is entitled to her consideration and Promotion, and in conclusion I say that it is a crying disgrace to New Zealand to have her returned men ’‘humping their bluevs” and in desperation. lhankin„ you for space in your Masterton, November 9, 1921.