THE PORT.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXIX, Issue 3766, 23 May 1907, Page 2

THE PORT.

Things are a little mixed in regard to the local port and the control of the flood waters of the Manawatu River, in the upper reaches. The Minister of Lands, who, by the way, is interested in the Makerua Estato, is desirous that the up-river settlers shall be protected against the in cursion of the flood waters on their lands. He is desirous of forming a River Board, and departmental experts have been making surveys and taking levels, and collecting data to be presented to the Minister. This is all very well, and we hope the time is not far dis tant when this rich area of country-will be protected from the ravagiis of the flood waters. But we would remind Mr McNab that the port of Foxton must not be set

aside as something of minor importance, and the Minister for Marine should see to it that nothing is done by the Minister of Lands that will in any way interfere With the local shipping interests. We believe it is time that the Minister for Marine and the Railway Department took a hand in this matter, and thus prevent any surprise action. River protection, wharfage and river navigation require immediate attention, and a conference should be held between representatives of the departments and Mr John Stevens, member for the district, who, by the waj r , seems to have been overlooked during the recent agitations. No time should be lost by the local bodies in laying the whole matter before our member, whose assistance and advice is most desiiable.