MINERS STRIKE

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 55, Issue 305, 8 October 1935, Page 6

MINERS STRIKE

WORK CEASED AT MIDNIGHT,

THE WAGES DISPUTE AT WAIHI.

LONG NEGOTIATIONS FRUITLESS.

(Per Press Association.) WAIHI, This Day. Midnight last night saw the beginning of the strike after several months’ negotiations between the Martha Goldmining Company (Waihi) Ltd., and Qhinemuri Miners’ and Batteries’ Union and Associated Unions, following seven days’ statutory notice given yesterday Week of intention to cease work Unless an agreement was reached.

It is understood that the contractors, who represent about one-third of the workers in the mine were prepared to accept the company’s terms and wages. The men asked for full restoration of the 1931 terms. In the event of a settlement both contractors and wages filed wanted payment to be retrospective as from last May, when the new company was formed.

The men considered their request reasonable because they had been asked by the company to delay seeking a. new industrial agreement until the formation of the Martha Company. The mine superintendent (Mr H. W. Hopkins) seen shortly before mid-night said it was expected that further negotiations would be entered upon. • Groups of men discussed the position in the streets to-day, but everything is quiet and orderly.

THE FINAL MEETING. WAIHI, October 7. A mass meeting of members of the Ohinemutu Batteries and Miners’ Union and allied workers was held yesterday to consider the proposals of "the Martha Goldmining Company following a conference last week. At the conclusion of the meeting, Union officials said that there was nothing to report beyond that further negotiations with the company were being instituted immediately. A communication was received from the Minister of Labour that should the strike noiice be withdrawn the Waihi Company would concede the conditions and rates under the 1931 agreement, prior to the 10 per cent. cut.