OPENING UP OF THE LAND.

Tuapeka Times, Volume I, Issue 5, 14 March 1868, Page 3

OPENING UP OF THE LAND.

(To the Editor of the Tuapeka Times).

Sir,- -It seems to me strange and unaccountable why the Government is so dilatory and backward in mcc ling the wants of the colonist 3in respect to land, the more especially as it is now an universally admitted fact that the permanent occupation and settlement of the land ia the basis of all wealth and prosperity. Some time ago we of this district were soothed into a state of pleasant expectancy that our utmost wishes ' were soon to be gratified in the fact that at the expiry of the lease of the Belamy Station 5,000 acres were to be taken without compensation for the purpose of settlement ; also 5,000 acres from Smith's Run for same purpose. lam now given to understand that the lease of the Belamy Station is now up (notwithstanding the statement made by the present lessee that five years ara still to run), and 1 now want to know what has occurred to prevent the fulfilment of the Government promise.

I can easily imagine that a delay might occur if compensation had to be paid, as at present the Government may not have means at their disposal to pay the same. Surely it does not require weeks and months to settle this small matter, as the j&At of the Superintendent is all that is wanted.

I have hat! frequent application and enquiry made to me about this same matter, and I am unable to satisfy the applicants. It is 1 now high time that the Government tested themselves, and endeavor by energy and promptitude to meet at all events the desire and wishes of the people, as far as settlement is concerned.

A Miner.