OPENING A NEW COURTHOUSE.

King Country Chronicle, Volume IV, Issue 285, 13 August 1910, Page 5

OPENING A NEW COURTHOUSE.

At the formal opening of the new courthouse at Taumarunui last Tuesday, ' Mr Loughnan, S.M., gave a very interesting comparison between the various towns in regard to plaints entered for hearing. From this it appeared that while Hamilton was steadily rising in regard to its eivil suits, it was making but a slow increase in criminal ones- not nearly in proportion to increase of population. Taumarunui, however, did not compare favourably with, Hamilton in regard to increase of criminal cases having risen from 92 in 1000 to 133 in 1909. "If," said his Worship, "you continue in your iniquitous career, you may expect to establish a record. Huntly, however, with 46 civil and 3G criminal cases, was at the bottom of the list in the former, and second on the list in the latter class of cases." Referring again to the accommodation at the new courthouse, Mr Loughnan said that he was sorry the space for the public was more restricted than in the old building, consequently not so many would be able to enjoy "the monthly free show." On the other hand they would be wanner, would not have birds xoosiing on their shoulders, cold draughts, etc. His Worship next paid an eloquent tribute to the administration of justice in this country, which he said was absolutely incorruptible. His Worship then declared the court open amid loud applause.