NEW POST OFFICE

Evening Star, Issue 22144, 26 September 1935, Page 10

NEW POST OFFICE

EMPLOYMENT OF LOCAL LABOUR A MAHER FOR THE CONTRACTORS Ever since the erection of Dunedin’s new Post Office began there have been periodical complaints concerning the engagement of tradesmen from other centres on certain parts of the work. It should be realised that this is unavoidable when tenders for the work are called on the open market and contractors from other centres are free to enter into competition with local contractors. Any change from this system would not be desirable while it offers the same opportunities for Dunedin contractors to enter other fields. The latest grievance comes from a correspondent who raises objection to the employment of Auckland tradesmen on the plastering work. Tlie facts are that the sub-contractor (L. Bater Ltd.) has been approved by the Public Works Department to carry 7 out this section of the work, which was secured in competition with local plastering establishments. In the interests of his business the Auckland contractor considered it wise to employ men who had served their apprenticeship with him and who had given him satisfactory service. These men, not exceeding six; have been resident in Dunedin since the beginning of February, have been approved for membership of the Plasterers’ Union, and their names are included on the parliamentary electoral roll. It was explained by the sub-contractor this morning that, on account of the granite work on the building, plastering could only be proceeded with gradually, but once the granite work is finished, plastering will be executed on a bier scale and an opening will then be made for the employment of local ,Jradesß*?9(! '