N.Z. COAL MINES

Hokitika Guardian, 18 March 1930, Page 6

N.Z. COAL MINES

AAIEN DAIENTS TO ACT

ißy Telegraph—Per Dress Association.)

WELLINGTON, Aiarcli 17

“I have just begun the work of preparing such amendments to the Coal Alines Act as it may be necessary to bring before Parliament- during the coming session.” said the Alinister ol Alines, Air Yeiteh, to-day, when receiving a deputation from the United Alitiers’ Association. The de*i-nt-ation placed heiore the Alinister a variety of matters of domestic interest, and oi -broader questions. The Alinister was .asked why lie had delayed the holding of the inquiry recoin mended by the Linton Commission into the use of rescue brigades in the mines. It was contended that various disasters which had occurred in Neiv Zealand had emphasised the need for organised rescue brigades. Had a brigade been on the spot during the Linton disaster, two out ol the three men would have been saved.

A plea was also entered for the payment of miners’ wages weekly, instead of fortnightly, as at present, it being stated th.at the men were living from hand to mouth, and were, under the existing arrangement, prevented from dealing where and when they wanted to. Other points raised related to compensation, the appointment of inspections, stone rusting, and safety devices. Replying to the representations, the Alinister said he was in favour of any system which would afford better facilities for helping the miners when colliery disasters occurred, and he would see if he could arrange a conference of the- representatives of the coal mine owners, the mine workers and the Department to consider the question of rescue brigades. The Alinister did not amplify his statement concerning the amendments to the Act, beyond informing the deputation that consideration in the drafting of- the ; amending measures would he given the representations tliev had made.