SHORTAGE OF WORK

Hokitika Guardian, 25 November 1929, Page 7

SHORTAGE OF WORK

TELEGRAPH LINESMEN DISMISSED.

AUCKLAND, Nov. 21

A Christmas-box of a kind by no means appreciated has been handed to a number of linesmen working in and around Auckland for the Post and Telegraph Department. The men have been notified that, owing to shortage off work, their services will not be required after next Monday. The announcement has caused consternation amongst the men affected, who are mostly married men with families. Some have had long services, with the Department. A deputation from the men called at the “Star” office this morning and produced the dismissal notice,-" which was signed by a local officer of the Department. The spokesman for the men said that, in view of the Government’s announcement that work would be found for every man in New Zealand who was willing to accept service, the action of the Post and Telegraph Department was extraordinary. He said that his wages were £3 19s 9d a week, and there was never any overtime. He mentioned that there were sixteen men affected, and said that the outlook for them this Christmas was black.

Another member of the deputation asked what was the use of one Government Department finding relief work for men when, at the same time, another Government Department was putting men off. Inquiries made in an official quarter this morning did not throw much liglH on the subject. One of the Auckland Post and Telegraph officials, when approached. at first denied knowledge of the dismissal notices, and finally suggested that the interviewer should see somebody “higher up.”