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Gisborne Times, Volume XXIII, Issue 1826, 6 August 1906, Page 2

IN THE BACK BLOCKS,

“The countryman just as much as the dweller in the town needs roads

that will stand 1, the [stress of heavy traffic and wet weather, and when he is undertaking the work of a pioneer, clearing the busli and breaking in virgin soil, his need is all the greater. The question is one of the first magnitude, and notwithstanding the brief limits which Sir Joseph Ward prescribes for the coming sossion, we trust that the ‘ strong Government ’ which he is determined to form will be ready to show Parliament a strong lead on the subject without waiting till next year.” Thus writes the Wellington Post, in dealing with the woes of the back-blocks settlers, and in this district we can cordially endorse tho sentiment. Here is a splendid chance for the “ strong Government ” to make its mark on the favored pages of history. From all over the country districts of the North Island (writes tho Post) comes the usual bitter cry of the settler whoso holding is removed further than ever from civilisation by the conversion of his roads into quicksands or sludge channels which are not navigable for man or beast, for the wheeled vehicles or sailing craft ; and to those who are wasting their strength and oubitance and breaking their hearts in the desperate struggle the possibility of securing an elleefive remedy must be appearing as remote as tvor. In some cases in this district the roads have actually been demolished. Put enough of complaints ; let the “ strong Government ” seize the opportunity to help the settlers and acquire fame for the Government as one that will cast platitudes aside znd do something in the direction ndicated,