A BANQUET.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 81, 13 April 1901, Page 3

A BANQUET.

[i!y Telegraph—Press Association.] Timant, last night.

A banquet attended by all classes of the community was given to Dr. Barclay, t Mayor of Wainiata, last night. There were eighty present, among the guests being the lion. \V. 0. Walker and Afessrs Laiircnson and Jiarclay, ALAI. R.’s. The citizens eulogised the Mayor for his progressive ideas, which have introduced a sharp diversion in the Borough Council. The Minister of education spoke in

general terms on the general policy of the Government, especially on the value of land for settlement, which had been largely applied in Waimate district, and (ho applause testified to its success. He also spoke on tiro necessity for a colonial scale of salaries for tea diors. He denied that there was any intention to interfere with the functions of Education Boards. The colonial scale would merely ensure their finance, and the selection of teachers was left us at present. The Bov. G. Barclay, member of the Education Board, sharply criticised some recent incomprehensible regulations and administrative acts, for which, however, ho did not blame the Minister, hilt some of tlio executive officers of the Department.

Air Walker said Ah' Barclay’s comilaints were mere mirages, wlifcli Alt'

Barclay denied. The' attention of the Arinister was drawn by thi/* County Chairman to the heavy taxes on country ratepayers to make main roads to new settlements, and to erect the bridges which they made necessary. and lie asked for a scheme for assistance. A deviation of the main line of railway to touch Waimate was mooted, and to-day the Minister is to ho driven over the proposed route ; also, to inspect a block of from 800 to 100 acres near Waimate, recommended to lie bought for workmen’s homes. The Premier and Ah' Ward had promised-™ be.at the banquet, but the Premier with bar bound at Grcymouth, and Air Wfrd Had (o wait to meet him at Wellington.’ Air Walker represented the Ministry/ _____