STRIKE OF RABBITERS.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2620, 13 February 1894, Page 3

STRIKE OF RABBITERS.

The Lumsden corre a pondent of the Southland News states that a novelty in the way of strikes is taking place in the district. All the rabbiters employed ou the extensive runs of the New Zealand Agricultural Company have signified their intention to cease work. The cause of the strike is the notice that after next week no more small skins will be accepted—not even those already caught. All dogs are ordered off the estate at once. Nothing but traps for rabbit-killing is to be allowed in future. Only on three days a week are rabbits to be taken over, and these must be caught and packed into Lumsden by the rabbiters on those days. In his jacket, instead of as formerly for his jacket only, and any rabbit which when “ gutted,” weighs less than 2£lb, is to be rejected. In order that they may be frozen and sent Home every rabbit must be clean and not bruised. The men have been able by working their hardest, with their dogs, every day in the week, at the old prices (for the skins only), to earn about £2 5s per week. Under the altered conditions, and on compulsory half-time (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays only) they say positively nothing can be made, so they have struck. Probably the Rabbit Inspector may have something to say about this strike if prolonged.