CONTRACT SYSTEM

Auckland Star, Volume LXXII, Issue 238, 8 October 1941, Page 8

CONTRACT SYSTEM

WATERFRONT WORK !

REINTRODUCTION AGREED ON

As an outcome of the discussions which have taken place in Auckland during the past two days between the Minister of Labour, Mr. Webb, members of the Waterfront Control Commission and representatives of the Auckland Waterside Workers' Union, the contract system of working vessels is to be re-introduced on the Auckland waterfront and will appl\" to an classes of cargo. Previously the contract system has been adopted with respect to certain classes of cargo only.

The discussions have also resulted in the reinstatement of two waterside workers who were dismissed last January for refusing to handle produce during the cool store dispute at King's wharf; and the straightening out of a number of other matters associated with waterfront work.

The proposals emanating irom the discussions were submitted to one of the largest monthly stop-work meetings of watersiders in Auckland this morning and were unanimously adopted. Better Spirit Prevails In expressing gratification at the position arrived at, Mr. Webb stated this morning that he had been confident that if the spirit of eo-opera-tion evident at the conferences found expression at the stop-work meeting of the men, it would open a new page in the history of the waterfront. He had since been informed that the proposals had been enthusiastically and unanimously accepted, and had been assured that a better spirit had never prevailed on the waterfront than that which now existed. The results of the meeting would have far-reaching effects for good. The co-operative system of contract work would be established as quickly as practicable, and he was sure it would be on a better basis than that which had previously existed. The importance of the settlement arrived at in relation to New Zealand's war effort could not be over-stated as so much depended on the rapid turn round of ships.

"It was generally agreed that the present method of handling cargo on some of the wharves could be much improved," Mr. Webb added. "The extension of the mechanical method of handling cargo was approved in practice, but there are a number of difficulties to be overcome, not the least of which are those which may be experienced in securing the plant and machinery. However, the whole question of quicker and cheaper handling of cargo is under consideration. If the commission and the men approach the Auckland Harbour Board with practical proposals consideration will be given to them."

Union President's Comment "The contract system is to be reintroduced to apply to all classes of cargo forked at the port of Auckland, and long-standing grievances that have been causing grave concern to the union, have been ironed out," said the president of the Waterside Workers' Union, Mr. H. Barnes, following the stop-work meeting. "I am absolutely satisfied that there is a better feeling prevailing on the waterfront than has prevailed for years, and the way lies open for progress and harmony for some considerable time." Mr. Barnes also ex-pressed-gratification at the reinstatement of the two men who had been dismissed last January, and said that this was among the main issues involved in the discussions. There had also been a host of minor matters inseparable from the industry discussed These, too, had been successfully adjusted, and the union r£L£ OW -*L n a P° siti on to start off afresh with a complete understanding Wlt " the commission, and with 100 per cent co-operation on both!