MINERS' WAGES.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVII, Issue 49, 26 February 1916, Page 6

MINERS' WAGES.

THE WAIHI CONFERENCE. ALL DEMANDS REJECTED. (By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent) WAIHI, this day. The following reply, which confirms the report already published in the "Star," has been received by the secretary of the Ohineniuri Mines and Batteries Employees' Union relative to the recent conference between the representatives of the mine owners and the Miners' Union respectively:— ~ln reference to proposals submitted by your union for a new agreement with the mining companies, and which were i discussed at a conference between the union and companies on 15th hist., we are not prepared to consent to any increase in wages or to shorter hoiirs of labour. We are also unable to agree tp j any other clause that differs from the old agreement. With reference to clause J4 .(dirt money) we are willing to pay ! 1/- per shift extra for repair work at or through boiler flues or inside boilers. With reference to contracts, we are wiljing that whenever possible all' underground work (with the exception pf timbermen's work) will be carried oui on straight out contract, also that as far as possible the companies will continue to let contracts to small parties of contractors, but the companies must retain the right to allow contractors t° t&ke. on wages men in certain circumstances. We would point out that although-the cost of living has risen during the last eighteen all mining stores has also''risen considerably, and in addition to this the mining companies are now paying -veryTieavy increased taxation. V?e., are, satisfied that the mining industry as a whole canI not stand increased wages!.

The reply is signed by the companies representatives as follows: E. G. Banks (Waihi G.M. Co.) W. F. Grace (Grand Junction Gold Co.), A. Daldy' (Waihi Keefs Consolidated), H. Langiion (Waihi Extended 6.M. Co.).