SALARY CUTS.

Shannon News, 15 September 1922, Page 3

SALARY CUTS.

THE CUT THE FARMER GOT,

An interesting interlude at Mr Harkness’s meeting at Ohau last night

dealt with Government’s reduction oi Civil servants’ salaries. The question was raised by Mr Connor, who Asked; “Are you in favour of the third cut in Civil servants’ wages?” (Laughter.) The candidate replied that he was entirely opposed to the cut, and considered it a great hardship to married men with £250 or £3OO a year to have these reductions made. The peo pie were told that the cost of living had come down, but he did not think it had'fallen in comparison with the cuts made. The Government had not been consistent, and he mentioned the position of certain Government employees, who had had the cuts made in their wages but their board at the Government institution at which they boarded was the same as before. Another thing, Government employees renting Government houses had the rent kept up on them, and even increased.

Mr Healey: Did you get the cut last year from 2/6 to 1/ for butterfat? (Laughter.) Mr Harlmess: The farmer has been cut more than anyone else, but there is no reason to- ask that the other fellow should have hardships. Mr Connor: Don’t you think the farmers were lucky with big prices a season or two back, and had money to spend? Mr Harkness: The Government got it. - Mr Connor: You can’t have it and spend.it too.