EDUCATION BOARD.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume 8, Issue 150, 28 June 1916, Page 3

EDUCATION BOARD.

REPRESENTATION OF WANGANUI MR. PIRANI STRONGLY REQUISITIONED. AGREES TO ACCEPT NOMINATION. A striking tribute to the work ot Mr. Fred Pirani as chairman of the Wanganui Education Board was paid last night at the meeting of that educational body when a representative deputation, headed by ar. W. Luxford, presented a requisition signed by 30 out of 32'members of the combined Wanganui, Durie Hi.l, Aramoho and Wanganui East schoJ committees, a living Mr. Pirani to allow himself to qe nominated as one of their representatives at the approaching elections. The deputation was introduced by Mr. W. Brnc.e, who said that tlie regret of those interested in education was keen when it was stated chat t was Mr. Pirani’s intention to retire from the Board. So greatly were his services recognised that a seat in any of the wards would lie open to him. If lie would contest the seat he would have the practically unanimous- support of the four local committees. Mr. Luxford said the deputation was thoroughly representative of the urban district of Wanganui. He then presented the signed requisition- which, inter alia, said- that never was there time when Mr. Pirani’s service would he more required on tne Board as a number of the old - members were retiring. It was realised that the Board, under Mr. Pirani, had been raised to the highest standard jn New Zealand, and a Royal Commission had commented on its efficient administration. There were two only who had not signed the requisition, members of the Durie Hill Committee, Messrs Simpson and McLean. Mr. Bruce said he had been associated with his school»committee for a quarter of a century, and he could thoroughly endorse everything thb requisition set forth. Another speaker was Mr. Grace. He said he had been associated with Mr. Pirani, and fully recognised the latter's sterling worth. It would give great pleasure to the residents of Wanganui if he would continue his good work. Speaking to the deputationists, Mr. Pirani said he had decided to retire or. account of the recent altertaion in the boundaries of the Wanganui Education District, and for the reason that e found the work was taking up so much of his time. The fact that the Wanganui School Committees who knew his work and the recent trouble that had overtaken . education were practically unanimous was the only consideration that could influence him. It would be impossible for any man not to feel ’ flattered by the? requisition. It was one anybody would be proud of. It was the greatest testimonial he had 1 received in the course 6f his public career. He had considered the matter seriously, and not without misgivings, and taking all the circumstances into consideration lie felt that he should accede to the request. (Applause). Referring to some of the Board’s work, Mr. Pirani said that the cutting up of the sections on the Avenue, and th,e erection of the present fine buildings was due to air. Bruce. Personal!y he could never have carried out his work hut for the help of the members of the Board, and the devoted help ol the officers. All who had assisted him wore deserving of thanks. Mr.’ Luxford then stepped forward with a nomination paper, which Mr. Pirani signed amid applause.