PUBLIC WORKS.

Taranaki Daily News, 21 December 1915, Page 3

PUBLIC WORKS.

FLOOD DAMAGE IN TARANAKI. Although there is no lack of work for men ahle and willing to take work in the country districts, the Minister for Public Works thinks it is already evident that there may he considerable unemployment during next winter. Hon. W. Eraser stated on Friday that i works on roads were still being continue'., but certain railway works had bad to he stopped. In the camps still working the number of men had been reduced, but not a single man had ever been discharged at his order. Jfc-n leff camps from time to time, and he hail £iven instructions that no new men were to !be taken on. Owing to the heavy rains recently in the centre of the North Island, a great deal of extra expenditure had had to be incurred. The rains had wrought great damage in the papa country between the Main Trunk line and the West Coast from Kawhia down to New Plymouth, but this flood damage was now repaired. Work generally on tlie roads was being proceeded with, though not so expeditiously as last year, because it must be recognised that money was not so plentiful thi"! year, and it must also be recognised that provision must be made for what unfortunately had proved to be verv probable—that there would be a considerable demand for work during next winter by men who find themselves unable to get work in the country. Nothing in the nature of relief works was necessary now, however.