SEAMEN UNITE

Auckland Star, Volume XLIV, Issue 276, 19 November 1913, Page 7

SEAMEN UNITE

TO FORM NEW UNION. A PECULIAR POSITION. Steps have been taken in Auckland to form a new union for seamen and firemen belonging to ships trading out of the ports of Auckland and Onehunga. A meeting, attended by thirty-three prospective members, was held yesterday, and officials were elected. An announcement was also made at tbe same time that steps would be taken at once to have the new union registered. This morning it was stated that members of the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Federated Seamen's Union, registered at Auckland, did not attach much importance to the new body. It was pointed out that there is already a Seamen's I'nion in Auckland registered under the Arbitration Act. and iv accordance with the term.- of the measure it would not be possible to register another union for this centre while there is one in existence, to which seamen "can conveniently belong." Under the circumstances the present members arc doubtful if the ReirL-trar would admit the new union unless arrangements have been made for the suspension of the Art to permit such a proceeding. Mr. Nicholson, of the Northern Co.'s steamer Niiatiawa. has been elected president of the new union, and Mr. Ouley. of the Kanieri. secretary. Mr. Nicholson has stated that he can see no reason why the men should leave their vessels. At present they are quite satisfied with their conditions. The position regarding the proposed new Seamen'- Union is the same as that regardiii"- the proposed new Hotel and Restaurant Employees' .Union. In each case the official" of ihe existing unions at Auckland arc awaitins advice of the application for the registration of the new unions. P.rfore such a step can be taken the officials must he advised of the position hy the Registrar, as provided for by the Act.