FIRE-WATCH SYSTEMS

Dominion, Volume 35, Issue 264, 6 August 1942, Page 4

FIRE-WATCH SYSTEMS

Organizer Replies To Criticism

“My attention has been directed to certain remarks attributed to the mayor of Christchurch, Mr. Andrews, appearing in the Press, in which the firewatching systems of Auckland and Wellington are held upas rapidly approaching the stage where the fire-watching was breaking down of its own weight," said the Wellington Fire Protection Organizer, Mr. V. E. Hampton Tludale, yesterday. “Quite apart from the impropriety of such a statement, I am insufficiently informed of the condition of the Auckland system and therefore neither support uor refute Mr, Andrews’ remarks as far as they apply to Auckland, and am of the opinion that only the Auckland authorities are qualified to comment upon the matter. “As far as the mayor of Christchurch’s published remarks concerning the Wellington system are concerned, I consider, first, whether they be true or false, that -the publication of such remarks is most discourteous, and additionally that they result in increasing the difficulties of -maintaining the service for such a statement, true or false, from, a public man, being read bj’ fire-watchers and others, gives rise to doubts in many places where hitherto no doubts existed, while giving visible support to that section of opposition which is ever active in any public movement.

“Fire-watching in Wellington can only -be carried out and has only been carried out with the goodwill and high morale of the majority, and when these attributes are impaired, the system suffers accordingly. Mr. Andrews’ remarks come as manna to some persons (a few of whom, have axes to grind) who find in him a prophet abroad to champion their contentions.

“Concerning Wellington citizens ‘being fed-up to the neck’ (to use Mr. Andrews’ words), I wonder if his information be from a representative source? Grant that this be so and what then? Are not people also Ted up to the neck’ With the many other hardships inflicted on them in time of war, but yet continue to endure these hardships in the belief that general benefit shall emerge therefrom, even though it may not be apparent at the moment? - -“Mr. Andrews may not be aware that last week a public meeting at the Wellington Town Hall, called for the purpose of hearing of the problems of a lire-watching system, adopted a resolution unanimously, which requested that more active disciplinary measures be taken in all cases where persons sought to evade their fire-watehing obligations, and that the system generally be tightened up. “I note that Mr. Andrews does not intend to change tho Christchurch system. Here in Wellington, we await the advice and direction of the practical authority from London, who being well experienced in such matters is in New Zealand for the purpose of guiding out efforts along the right lines. If Mr. A. D. Wilson, assistant fire force commander, National Eire Service, Loudon, who also is a New Zealander and familiar with our problems, advises to maintain, modify or intensify our system, I am confident'that Wellington authorities and Wellington citizens will be prepared to act on his recommendations.”