TARANAKI'S HARBOR.

Taranaki Daily News, 14 June 1916, Page 7

TARANAKI'S HARBOR.

A PLEA FOR PRISON LABOR. "Progress" writes to the editor:-^ Tlie early completion of the harbor at Moturoa is a matter of the most vital concern to the whole of the Taranaki district. It is understood that ultimately the intention is to join Moturoa Sugarloaf with the mainland, which will give shelter to shipping from the prevailing westerly weather, and also stop the sand from drifting along the coast from the south, thereby effecting a large saving annually in dredging. At a comparatively small cost prison labor might be secured to complete this work. It is understood there is at present a large number of prisoners available locally, and there Should be no difficulty in obtaining the Department's permission to utilise this labor. Prison labor has in the past been used, in New Plymouth advantageously by public bodies, and has also proved successful elsewhere in the Dominion in the class of work now advocated. Nature lias assisted in this work very materially by providing shallow water over the whole length of the site of the wall, also by placing Twin Rock in such a position that it may be used to form part of the wall. Moturoa Sugarloaf is reported to contain ample stone; and a commencement could be made from that end. The work should not prove ejucessively costly to complete. With prison labor engaged on this work it would not hinder the carrying out of any other important works which may be contemplated at the harbor.

If the revenue of the Board is found insufficient to complete this necessary work, the levying of a small rate would not be objected to by the ratepayers throughout the rating area, who now fully recognise a great advantage a deep sea harbor, capable of accommodaboats in all weathers, will be to this district. Tt is possible that if this matter is delayed the prison .labor which might be secured ijow will not be available at a later date.