WOMEN IN N.Z.E.F.

Waikato Times, Volume 129, Issue 21584, 21 November 1941, Page 6

WOMEN IN N.Z.E.F.

EXCLUSION OF TEACHERS TWO IN TARANAKI VOLUNTEER RESENTMENT OF COLLEAGUES (By Telegraph.—rress Association) NEW PLYMOUTH, Thursday “We teachers are here under false pretences,” a V.A.D. declared last night when the appeal was made at New Plymouth for volunteers for service overseas. Her remark followed a statement by Mrs C. A. Taylor, North Taranaki V.A.D. commandant, that school teachers were not eligible for selection. She felt this was not right, Mrs Taylor said, and she advised teachers with the necessary qualifications to offer themselves and apply to the education authorities for leave. It would be a pity to leave teachers out because they were a very fine type of V.A.D., commented Mrs G. Miller, one of the two selectors sent to Taranaki by the St. John Ambulance Commandery. Advice From Red Cross Two teachers were among those who volunteered for overseas service last night, and strong exception was taken by their colleagues to the bar against the profession. It was asked on whose authority teachers were excluded, whereupon Mrs Taylor read a telegram received yesterday afternoon from the Red Cross Society headquarters. Comment was made that it was strange that the telegram came from the Red Cross Society and not the Government. On Mrs Taylor’s advice it was decided that the teachers should enroll and allow the Taranaki Education Board, if it desired, to appeal against their going overseas.