DISABLED MEN.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 396, 1 April 1937, Page 3

DISABLED MEN.

EMPLOYMENT SCHEME. i Christchurch Experiment I An experiment that is uniqlue in employment effort is at present being carried out in Christchurch, and, if present prospects of success are realised, the scheme will be expended to cover the whole of the Dominion. This experiment is an effort tio find employment in industry for paa-tially disabled men. says the Christcihureh Star-Sun. Officers of the Labour Department in Wellington are of the opinion that disabled men can carry out oertain duties in industry without any loss in efficiency. There are machin es in many factories which could be operated successfully by a man with one leg, for example. A further point considered wais that men so disabled, through their inherent desire to be as other mem and because the denial of sport and recreation causes them to concentrate to a greater degree upon any task allotted to them, would display great enthusiasm and concentration, speed-

ily equipping themselves for the efficient discharge of their duties. In an outline of the scheme, the secretary of the department, Mr J. S. Hunter, said: “The first thing is to explore the possible positions which such men could adequately fill. It is not desired to appeal to sentiment, but rather to suggest that the placement of disabled men will free other trained labour which could give more valuable service in other capacities. Many Opportunities. “Examination of workshops, factories and offices will surely disclose opportunities. Many clerical positions do not involve walking. Doubtless many machines dispense with the need for full use of all limbs. The loss or impairment of a foot or hand may still not unfit a worker for operating modern machines. Sorting or grading duties may permit a constant sitting position. Telephone attendants, typing, ledger-keeping, lift attendants, custodian’s duties, messenger duties, newspaper sellers, ushering at theatres, doormen at large shops, car park attendants — these are but some of the posts that , could well be filled by the disabled.” Christchurch was decided upon as the centre in which this scheme should be launched, and it was considered best to organise it through the placement scheme.