LODGE CIRCULAR

Evening Post, Volume CXXVI, Issue 153, 2 December 1938, Page 18

LODGE CIRCULAR

SOCIAL SECURITY ACT

EFFECT ON MEMBERSHIP

(By Telegraph.) (Special to the "Evening Post.") i DUNEDIN, This Day. "The inception of the Social Security Act, which will start to operate on April 1 next, at least in regard to the payment of contributions by everyone, will, it is feared, cause many members to seriously consider whether they can, oi* will retain, their lodge membership," states a circular sent to members of the Otago District of the M.U.1.0.0.F. "There have in factalready been received some resignations from the ranks, and it has been thought wise to circularise all members in regard to the matter. Precipitate action at this time would be unwise, and it behoves each member to consider well before making a decision to withdraw from his or her lodge. The provisions of the Act are, of course, reasonably well known, but whether all that is aimed at under the Act will be brought about we know not yet."

The circular then sets out reasons why members should retain their connection with the society and adds that the dispute with the Medical Association may be difficult to settle, and no one should lightly throw aside their present arrangements for medical service till the differences between the Department and medical fraternity have been adjusted.

"It, must not be forgotten, too, that under the Social Security Act no provision is made for payment in connection with sickness for the first seven days. This is most important, and our experience shows that claims for sickness allowance for periods up to one week represent anything from 25 to 30 per cent, of casual claims."