Manawatu Herald TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1921. GAS WORKS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2239, 15 February 1921, Page 2

Manawatu Herald TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1921. GAS WORKS.

A SOMEWHAT delicate position appears to have arisen in connection with tiie working of I lie gas works. At last night's Council meeting correspondence was read from the manager and stoker, asking for an increase in wages. The Mayor, while paying a tribute to the good services of both applicants, explained that extra assistance had been provided for, and under the circumstances did not think it would be fair to the ratepayers to grant an increase. A motion to this effect was carried, with two dissentients. The manager and-stoker were in attendance, and upon the Council’s decision being made known the stoker gave a week's notice. Whether the manager's resignation will follow remains to he seen. In this ease it may be difficult to till the vacancies, for the reason that few men in the sphere of labour will accept. similar employment at a wage below that asked for liv their predecessors. We should regret lo chronicle a deadlock at the works and the consequent stoppage of gas production and public inconvenience and loss. The Council is satisfied with the gas works staff, and the excellent quality of gas manufactured, the only point in dispute is wages and hours. We suggest that the Council as a whole again carefully review the position and endeavour to draw up a fresh agreement as to hours and wages for a definite period which will be satisfactory to all concerned. This, we believe, would be preferable to an open breach and possible stoppage of the works.