KILLING BY CONTRACT

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 956, 26 April 1930, Page 6

KILLING BY CONTRACT

WORK AT CITY ABATTOIR MEN’S OPINION DIVIDED A motion brought down by Cr. J. R. Lundon at the meeting of the City Council on Thursday evening to rescind a resolution establishing contract killing at the municipal abattoirs was heavily defeated. Approval of the council’s action in calling for tenders was shown by the Auckland Provincial Master Butchers’ Union of Employers in a letter. The view was expressed, however, that the bond of £2OO demanded from successful tenderers was too high, and might have the effect of preventing some desirable contractors from tendering. The Markets and Stores Committee will give the question consideration. DIVERGENT VIEWS The slaughtermen themselves are divided on the new scheme. The two sections each sought permission to place their views by deputation before the council. One request was signed by 24 tradesmen, the other by 27. “I could not see my way clear to allow both sides to come here in a body,” explained the Mayor, Mr. G. Baildon, in moving that two representatives from each side be invited to meet the Market and Stores Committee. “Behind the closed door is not the place to thrash this thing out,” declared Cr. J. R. Lundon, in protesting that the question should be argued as the men suggested. “The council should not recognise either of these groups of men, hut should negotiate with their union alone,” said Cr. T. Bloodworth. lie moved an amendment accordingly. Cr. E. J. Phelan, in support, pointed out that any negotiations with either faction was quite illegal. The Mayor’s motion was carried when Cr. Bloodworth’s amendment failed.