RABBIT PEST

Southland Times, Issue 24839, 3 September 1942, Page 4

RABBIT PEST

Sir,—Letters written by Mr Graham and “Old Soldier” on the above subject have recently appeared in your columns. In the main I agree with Mr Graham. “Old Soldier” scoffs at Mr Graham’s method of killing rabbits—that is, by fumigating. I have had good results with a fumigator and I do not know any farmer in this locality who has cleaned out his rabbits without one. If “Old Soldier” has a better method, let him sign his name, and then people will be able to check up on what he claims to have achieved. “Old Soldier” seems to think that because Mr Graham has to keep fumigating it cannot be successful. But I think most farmers will admit that where thousands of rabbits are just over the boundary fences they will always have to be at them, no matter what method is used. That is where the question of concerted action, or rabbit boards, arises. I have always been in favour of rabbit boards; but why on earth start them in such difficult times? The one I am concerned with was formed thus:—A meeting was called by five conveners. No motion was passed at the meeting, except to appoint a provisional committee to go into the question of boundaries. No secretary was appointed, and no minutes were kept. The meeting was looked upon as only a preliminary meeting, and we were told that there would be another public meeting. No further public meeting was held, and I and others who had collected evidence for or against forming a board at the present time were left lamenting. In reply to a question asked at the preliminary meeting it was asserted that labour would be available. Well, where is the labour? At present I hear we have two men killing rabbits, one highly paid secretary, and five board members who get a petrol allowance for attending meetings. It has been suggested that the rabbiters’ wages should be increased. If they are increased beyond the standard wage it will create a dangerous position, because other workers will naturally want an increase too. Farmers are having a hard job to find labour for their farms, and with the present labour difficulties and the high rate of wages it looks as if their troubles are to be increased. 11. PARR. Wyndham, August 31, 1942.