WORK ON FARMS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 28 November 1940, Page 6

WORK ON FARMS

SEASONAL OCCUPATION FOR SCHOOLBOYS PART IN NATIONAL WAR EFFORT. CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT OUTLINED. (By Telegraph—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, This Day. The conditions under which schoolboys may be employed in seasonal work on farms during the mid-sum-mer holidays were outlined by the Minister of Labour (Mr Webb)'in a statement today, when he referred to tlie keenness of schoolboys to play an effective part, in the national war effort by this means. The Government, through the Employment Division and placement officers in various centres, agreed that everything possible should be done to give these lads an opportunity to help the war effort. This would be promoted by youth centres at Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch and by placement officers elsewhere. Youths were now enrolling and farmers were being approached with a view to ascertaining their requirements. “Youths will be employed upon the conditions and wages bases of the Agricultural Workers’ Act,” said Mr Webb, "and every reasonable precaution will be taken to ensure that only those, who appear physically suitable will be sent forward. The legislative provision prohibiting farm employ, ment of any under fifteen years of age will be rigidly adhered to. In addition. attention will be paid to the standard of accommodation and meal arrangements proposed, because for most of the lads this will be their first employment and their first absence from home under employment conditions.”

Pointing out that the wages specified under the Act range from £ 1 weekly for dairying work and 18s 6d weekly for pastoral and other farm work for boys from 15 to 17 years of age to £2 12s 6d and £2 5s weekly, respectively, for men 21 years or over. Mr Webb said board and lodging or a cash equivalent in lieu thereof is to be provided. Preference will be given Where lads will be accommodated and meals provided in the home. Special rates are provided for casual workers. The Minister urged farmers desiring the services of youths during the holidays to communicate immediately with the youth centre at Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch or the placement officer at the Social Security office in other towns. He stressed his wish that no farmer should ask any lad to undertake a task too heavy or too sustained for his years.