TELEGRAPH OPERATORS

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8347, 6 February 1913, Page 3

TELEGRAPH OPERATORS

DEPUTATION TO THE SECRETARY

With regard to the shortage of telegraph operators and grievances of the existing stalf at Wellington, it is understood that a representative deputation of the officers yesterday waited upon the Secretary to the department (Mr W. It. Morris) and explained that they were not in any way concerned with the methods adopted to bring the subject under public notice through the columns of the press. Members of the delegation, it is believed, expressed their regret that such action should have been taken, and stated they were at a loss to understand why officers had chosen this means to ventilate their grievances. They recognised that the proper course would have been to seek an interview with the official head' of the department and discuss _ whatever matters needed to be remedied. “ The officers,” stated one of their number, “ mentioned one or two things which in their opinion , should be remedied, and received a sympathetic hearing.” A good proportion of the staff •recognised that they were expected to meet an emergency during the recent holiday rush, and they deprecated the action of the individual or individuals who had made communications to the papers. The delegation is said to hare included the chairman of the staff committee. From official quarters a ” Times ” reporter. ascertained that it was the desire of the department that the conditions under which the men worked should be as favourable as possible. Any reasonable request would receive careful consideration, but the publication of grievances without discussion with the heads of the department was not the best means that might be adopted. ...g If is rumoured that certain internal changes in the working conditions of the staff are in contemplation.