RIVER EROSION.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 116, 15 April 1940, Page 6

RIVER EROSION.

IAIPORTANT BILL PLANNED. Per Press Association. INVERCARGILL, April 14. Reference to the River Erosion Bill which he hopes to introduce in the House of Representatives was made yesterday by the Alinister of Public Works (Hon. R. Semple) when replying to a deputation of settlers whose properties adjoin the Aparima River, near Fairfax. He said ho had Cabinet’s approval for the preparation of the Bill, and lie hoped to he able to submit it to county councils before the session began. “River erosion is a very serious national problem and will have to he tackled on a scientific basis and from a national aspect,” said Air Semple. “When I started to inquire into the question I found that the Government had insufficient powers, but the Bill will give those powers and enable the problem to ho attacked properly.” The scheme would involve an extension of river board areas so that the burden would not fall on a small section of the community, lie said. When the Bill became law he proposed to set up a special erosion branch of the engineering staff of the Public Works Department. This branch would be given the task of preparing plans for the elimination of erosion, and Parliament would have to vote a definite sum each year for . the work.. At least £500,000 a year would he required. When the job was done someone would be given a definite responsibility for maintenance, so that stopbanks and other works should remain in good repair and not be allowed to be ruined.