SEAMEN'S WAGES.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XVI, Issue 5174, 5 November 1895, Page 2

SEAMEN'S WAGES.

Sydxev, November 5, At a moeting of the Seamen's Union, to discuss the question of demanding an increase of £1 por month, it was stated that requisition has been made to tho A.S.N,, Adelaido Steamship, North Coast, Illawarra and Hunter River Companies, for an increase, and in several cases an emphatic refusal has been received, The others bad not replied. It was decided t.o wait till all had replied and it was seen what action was taken in tho otber Colonies.

The Secreiary stated that if the owners refused to agree, an Intercolonial Conference would shortly be held to decide what action would bo taken.

He added that while tho Union was desirous of averting a disastrous conflict it felt strongly that the time had arrived to let owners know that tho present rates were inadequate. A section of the meeting was opposed to enforcing the demand at the present time. It is understood that the N.Z. Branch of the Union intends to join in the demand.

A representative of the Steamship Ownors' Association, on being interviewed, said ho did not believe that the movement was general so far, Only specifio demands had been received from men in the coastal trade and one intercolonial vessel, and the ownors had replied stating that the conditions of trade would not allow of any advance in wages. They admitted that trade was very brisk at present, but owing to great reductions in [freights tbe profits were very small. The Assooiation had not taken any | action, nor was any contemplated. I