SHORTAGE OF CEMENT

Auckland Star, Volume LXXVI, Issue 153, 30 June 1945, Page 6

SHORTAGE OF CEMENT

CONCERN BY BRICKLAYERS

THREAT OP UNEMPLOYMENT

Grave concern as to the possible effect on the housing problem caused by the cement shortage, was expressed at a meeting of the Auckland Bricklayers' Union and it was decided to support the Auckland Master Builders' Association in its representations to the Minister of Works in the matter.

"So acute is the housing shortage that if all available labour is fully employed thereon there will still be insufficient homes for returned men due to arrive shortly," says a statement issued by the union. "The cement shortage will still further delay the erection of houses and the position will become even more acute. The further possibility that lack of material will involve unemployment among workers in the building and allied trades is an added reason for very careful consideration of the suggestion that available supplies of cement be allocated in such manner that the most urgent requirements shall have precedence. Bricklayers consider that, although the supply'of electricity is of great importance, the provision of homes is of even greater urgency and is entitled to the highest priority."