AN AWAKINO EAST GRIEVANCE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXIII, Issue 192, 26 August 1901, Page 2

AN AWAKINO EAST GRIEVANCE.

Some discussion took place in the Jlouse on Thursday regarding the claim of Mr. John Old, of Awakino East survey district, alleging that because of a departmental error he has been deprived of a portion of his front lge to the Awakino river. The Waste Lands Committee submitted a report on tbe case, recommending its finding in a former session, that the claim should be decided by arbitration, or in such other way as the Government may decide, in the event of the Government being unable to sec Lire the land to the petitioner. Mr. Symes !-.e!d thnt s- rious injusticd had been done to this S'-t'hr. The Minis erfor Lands rep'ied that Mr. Old had bean offered fair terms, but had epked too much. Mr. Massey ondoised whut Mr. Symes had ssid, and pointed out that Mr. Old merely wanted the referred to arbitration. The Premier said that Sir John MoKenzie, when Minister for Lands, went fully into tais matter, and wou'd not go so far even as tbe pr. sent Minister for Lands in the cus-i. Mr. Sdddon added tha l he did nor. think tbe Government shou d be fore, d into arbitration by any individual. Mr. McGuire strongly urged th it the matter should be submitted to arbitation. Mr Lang also urged the claims of this settler for greater consideration. Af t»r further debate of a more or less discur«ive character, the report was received and referred to the Government for consideration.