PUBLIC OPINION.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 2, Issue 157, 30 December 1913, Page 2

PUBLIC OPINION.

We do not identify ourselves with the opinions expressed bv our correspondents " Let It Rip." | TO THE EDITOR.] Sir,—l was astonished at the indifference displayed by the ratepayers at the public meeting tu the welfare of the Fire Brigade. It is extraordinary that a prominent business man like Mr Perkins should express himself as favouring "letting the Brigade rip." I do not think Mr Perkins really meant it, for if a fire broke out in his premises he would be just as anxious as anyone else that the brigade should extinguish it. But, unfortunately, remarks of this nature are very apt to discourage the members of the brigade and make their lot a great deal harder than it is. The public seem to overlook the fact that the brigade give their services for nothing. If in every tDwn there were not those who are willing to come forward to take up the duties of firemen, what would be the position? Either the town would have to engage professional firemen or do without a fire brigade. Ic seems that the least that the public under the circumstances can do is to see that the brigade are encouraged in every possible manner, and the best way to do this is to take an interest in the welfare of the brigade, and not make remarks which may be taken aa a sneer at them. I should like to see the town take up the attitude that they are going to have a brigade of which they are proud, and one which is prepared to cope with any emergency. A spirit of this nature wiuld cb more to make the brigade thoroughly efficient than anything. There is nothing more disheartening fcr the fireman than tu be sneered st and treated with indifference. If the public don't want a brigade let them say eo straight out, and then the Brigade, will know the position they should take up.—l am, etc , AN OLD FIKEMAN.