The Daily News FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1903. HARBOUR IMPROVEMENT LEAGUE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXXXV, Issue 32, 6 February 1903, Page 2

The Daily News FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 1903. HARBOUR IMPROVEMENT LEAGUE.

The suggestion made by m a weak or two ago that a Harbour Improvement League should be formed, to collect and circulate information regarding the possibility of improving the harbour, so that the direct and Australian steamers could work the port, has caught on in a most satisfactory manner. Fortunately it was takes up by men who have the entire confidence of the community, tnd who put some energy in what they undertake. Mr T. O. Relsey drafted a proposal to be signed by those willing to join such a league, briefly setting forth its- objects, and agreeing to pay an annual subscription of £1 Is to assist in carrying out these objects. Mr OalUghan undertook the task of canvassing for members, making a start on Wednesday, and by mid-day had secured close on 150 'members, This shows how warmly the people of Ne * Plymouth recognise the need and i npoi'Unca ef some organisation having the improvement of the harbour for its sole aim and object. Mr Henry Weston has kindly consented to act as treasurer oi the fund, and the question now is as to getting into working erdsr, and how best to carry out the objects of tbo League, No time, in our opinion, should be lest in holding a me3ting of those whose nausea appear on the list to duly consti'ufcQ the league, elect officers.and a geod working committee. The work'of the committer will be of a very respsnsietle n »ture, as they will have to formulate a schem • wh-roby the necessary improvements can be effected, and put the same before the ratepayers, and secure their appreval. We are firmly of opinion that the country settlers will, so sooa as they realise the Advantages, urge strongly the improvement of the pirt, and it will be the duty of the League to place the advantages before the ratepayers as early and as strong'y as possible. A few meetings, such as Mr Ward held at Inglewood, would do an immense amount of good, but there are always some who do not attend meetings, and who will have to bs reached through the press. We feel sure if the League will collect the infoamation the press throughout the harbour district will give it every publicity and assist in making the port a first-class one, capable of being worked by the largest J vessels afloat. We believe every farmer in Taranaki realises the advantages of doing this, and, if sound financial proposals can be placed before them, we believe, a generous support will be forthcoming. The whole queition is one of finance, and must be dealt with carefully and thoroughly.