BUILDING WORKERS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 23 February 1939, Page 8

BUILDING WORKERS

THE NEW ZEALAND CALL IN AUSTRALIA OVER A THOUSAND MEN APPLY. TALK OF CHARTERING SHIP. By Telegraph—Press Association— Copyright. (Received This Day, 11.50 a.m.) SYDNEY, This Day. Over a thousand building tradesmen have made application for jobs in New Zealand. Mr J. Hodgens. M.P.. who is acting for the New Zealand Government, said he was satisfied that the mens' general calibre was well up to the standard required. So many have applied that the practicability of chartering a special steamer to take them to New Zealand is being considered. Mr Hodgens said he found that berths would not be available on a steamer leaving Sydney on March 10 and only a limited number could be booked on steamers leaving on March 10. 11 and 17. A cablegram will be sent to the New Zealand Premier (the Rt Hon M. J. Savage) today explaining the position. ’ ,

An earlier message reports Mr Hodgens as stating that he could get all the men he required in Sydney, without going to Melbourne and Adelaide where he had arranged to go. Union officials fear that a rush of men to New Zealand may cause a shortage of skilled tradesmen in Sydney and master builders are also becoming concerned. The main attraction appears to be the continuity of employment in (New Zealand, said one union official.