OUTPUT OF COAL.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 64, Issue 30, 15 November 1943, Page 2

OUTPUT OF COAL.

INCREASE ON LAST TEN MONTHS. LOWER ON THE WEST COAST. (P.A.) WELLINGTON, Nov. 14. The Dominion output of coal for the 10 months ended Octover 31, 1943, amounted to 2,236,524 tons, an increase of 113,709 tons compared with the same period last year, according to a statement made to-night hy the Minister of Mines (the Hon. P. C. Webb). He said that North Island production had increased by 98,311 tons, and in the South Island the output was 31,083 tons higher.

Mr Webb added that production on the West Coast, however, was 15,.85 tons lower than last year’s, due mainly to mining difficulties in certain mines and had bar conditions at the river ports of Greymouth and Westport.

“The output of the controlled Waikato mines during the first year of control showed an increase of 96,855 tons, or 13 per cent., or allowing 43,000 tons for the loss of output during the strike period, a new increase in the production of 53,855 tons, or 7 per cent.,” said Mr Webb. “The Mines Department is conducting an intensive survey of areas suitable for stripping and working by open cast method. The first block, to contain 60,000 tons of coal,, will be commenced immediately. The overburden will be removed by bulldozers and other suitable machines, the coal being loaded by mechanical shovels. Care will be exercised Jo ensure that the top soil is replaced after mining and the area sown in grass. Other likely areas in the North Island are being examined.” Mr Webb said there was a general shortage of labour for the mines, and there were many openings for the services of additional skilled miners. There were a large number of vacancies for truckers and any men willing to accept employment in that capacity were invited to send in their names to the Mining Controller, Mines Department, Wellington. Referring to the present situation coal supplies for householders*" Mr Webb said it was realised that the quantity available at the moment was inadequate. This was directly due to the failure of normal deliveries from Australia, and the imperative need to conserve stock for essential industries. It was expected, however, that additional supplies for domestic users would be made available in the near future.