GUMFDIGGERS' MEETING.

Wairoa Bell, Volume V, Issue 208, 28 July 1893, Page 3

GUMFDIGGERS' MEETING.

A meeting of gumdiggers was held at Corcoran’s ball, Dargaville, last Saturday 7 afternoon to consider the influx of aliens to the gumfields aud to decide what steps should be taken in the matter. Mr Fitzpatrick was voted to the chair, and afterthanking those present for the honour, proceeded to explain the object of the meeting. He considered the influx of these aliens was a question of great importance to the whole of New Zealand. If the influx were allowed to continue the British gumdiggers would ultimately be driven off the gumfields. The digg ers > he believed, had sense enough to make the attempt to try and prevent these aliens from flooding the fields. The greater part of the money earned by those people was sent out of the Colony and left no return behind. He then called upon those who had any propositions to make or suggestions to offer, to do so. Several propositions in connection with the influx of aliens were then brought forward and put to the meeting and carried unanimously. It was also resolved that copies of all resolutions be sent to Mr J. Falmer, M.H.R., with the request that he use his best endeavours to get the Government to legislate in the matter at once. Just before the meeting broke up Mr Dargaville in reply to a question by Mr P. Connelly pledged himself to contest Eden against the Hon. E« Mitchelson at the next general election.