A PROTEST

Southland Times, Issue 21088, 21 May 1930, Page 6

A PROTEST

PEBBLY HILLS AFFORESTATION SCHEME.

CLAIM OF SOUTHLAND’S UNEMPLOYED.

At the meeting of the City Council last evening the Mayor (Mr J. D. Campbell) said that, although he could not speak authentically, he understood that only 1000 acres of the Pebbly Hills afforestation area were to be planted this season. He said that this would not take long to plant, and he considered the council should press for the whole area to be planted. “It is also rumoured,” continued his Worship, “that some of Dunedin’s unemployed will be sent down to the work. I feel that it is primarily a job for Invercargill and Southland men. It is unfair if unemployed are to be sent from other parts before our own men get a chance. I should like to see the council pass a resolution to the effect that Southland men have the first claim.”

Councillor T. O’Byrne said that he would move in that direction. He stated that he had feared that unemployed in Dunedin would be given work instead of Southland men who were justly entitled to be employed.

Councillor Robertson seconded the motion.

Councillor Brodrick mentioned that the Southland League-had been all along interested in the afforestation scheme and suggested that, its co-operation be sought. This was agreed to and the motion was carried unanimously.