CHRISTCHURCH.

Thames Star, Volume X, Issue 3351, 18 September 1879, Page 2

CHRISTCHURCH.

Last night.

A meeting of the unemployed was held to-day in Cathedral square, about 400 or 500 being present. They were very orderly. A deputation was appointed fco wait on the Mayor, who, after hearing what they had to say, promised to interview Messrs Stevens and Andrews, and

iilao to communicate with the Government without delay. The deputation were accompanied by a crowd, who returned with them to thu square, and alter announcing the result of their representations iuvitcd those present to assemble again when an, answer had been received from Wellington, of which due notice would be given. His Worship lost no tiino in fulfilling his promises, and after seeing Messrs Stevens and Andrews forwarded the following telegram to Sir G. Grey :—" Premier, Wellington.— Have had betweiv* six and seven hundred unemployed waiting upon mo this morning asking employment. Have seen City members, who concur in asking Government to take immediate steps to provide employment. The men are very orderly and respectful in demeanour. Their wants are pressing. C. T. Ick, Mayor." " The Hon. Premier. —I hare the honour to bring under your notice in continuation of the telegram sent this morning, the urgent necessity that exists for prompt steps being taken by the Government to fiud employment for a large number of respectable artisans and labourers now out of work. lam informed that a large number of men have recently been discharged from the railway and other works, and continued depression of trade will account for the large deputation that waited upon me this morning. The men, 1 although showing proper 1 demeanour in placing their wants before me, expressed very strongly the desirableness of immediate steps being taken to stop male immigration. From ail I can see and hear I believe there are many cases requiring argent relief, and I would respectfully urge upon the Government the necessity for prompt action."-^ have, etc., C. T. Ick, Mayor of Christchurch, September 17.

Shipping: On September 17, the W. L. Butt arrived from Newcastle. Sail d : Southern Cross for Wellington; Letters by the Suez mail which arrived by express train were delivered this morning at the ordinary town delivery time. Canterbury is again included in the scab infected districts, through some scabby sheep being allowed to cross the boundary of the province, near Amuri. Information has been laid against the owner. A correspondent in last night's Star states that the patients of the Christchurch Hospital have not had a particle of green vegetables for nearly eight months. The Hospital Board at to-day's meeting will discuss the question. A resident surgeon has been appointed at an adequate salary.