HON. J. G. COATES

Southland Times, Issue 18844, 9 June 1920, Page 5

HON. J. G. COATES

VISIT TO GISBORNE. A ROUGH JOURNEY. (Per United Press Association.) WELLINGTON, June 8. The Hon. J. G. Coates, Minister of Public Works, arrived at Gisborne this morning, having travelled overland from Napier. The Minister describes the journey, which was made during rain, as one of the roughest ho has experienced. There were numerous slips and trees across the road, which the Minister, with a long-handled shovel, assisted in clearing. Mr Coates was accorded a civic reception this morning, after which he received deputations from various parts of the district as far north as Matakaoa County. The Minister will continue his overland jaurney to Opotiki to-morrow. VARIOUS DEPUTATIONS. GISBORNE, June S. Mr Coates spent the day in Gisborne, and received a number of deputations. He was tendered a civic reception in the morning. During the day the Minister received deputations from local bodies regarding grants for roads. An important deputation from the East Coast Railway and Development League asked for a vigorous policy in pushing on the Napier-Gisborne railway, the development of Waikarernoana hydro-electric power, and the improvement of mail services. Mr Coates, in replying, said he realised the importance of completing the important railway lines, and also developing hydroelectricity. He promised careful consideration of the requests.