THE BOROUGH OFFICIALS.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 601, 10 September 1913, Page 5

THE BOROUGH OFFICIALS.

COMPLIMENTED BY COUNCIL

DETRACTORS DENOUNCED. During the course of the Borough Council meeting on Monday evening Cr Spencer said there was an important matte: he wished to refer to in the shape of annoyances to which the council officials were subject in the course of their duties. It was common knowledge that since last meeting two officials had been sub jected to unwarranted criticism in carrying out their duties. One of them had accusations of partisanship made against him. If this sort of thing was going to be carried on they would not get decent service from anyone. To be subjected to the subtle machinations of persons whose mouths wanted washing out with the strongest brand of disinfectant would cause continual dissatisfaction. He moved—"That this council herewith expresses ita entire confidence in its officials and strongly deprecates and resents the recent unwarranted pin pricks reflecting on their integrity and single-mindedneas in carrying out their onerous and difficult duties." Cr Somerville seconded the motion, stating it should be a pleasure to stick up for the officials of the borough. Cr Walsh said he was not quite clear whether the mover* meant persons inside or outside the council. Cr Spencer: Outside. Cr Walsh, continuing, said in that case he did not see what they could do They could not, prevent the man in the street from talking. Any ratepayer was justified in expressing an opinion. If the matter was referred to the council they could then take action.

Cr Graham said perhaps Cr Walsh did not understand the position. Assertions had been made outside which should have been madfi to the council or not at all. "We are satisfied with the officials of the council at the present time, and wish to say so." The Mayor said if he had any knowledge of any of the council officials not doing their duty ho would be the first to rap them over the knuckles. Honest, clean criticism should not be shifted, but he happened to know that some of the most despicable and underhand stories had been circulated concerning the officials which if sheeted home would cause some people to hide their heads for shame. The motion on beiny put was carried unanimously.