OTIRA TUNNEL.

Press, Volume LVI, Issue 16885, 13 July 1920, Page 6

OTIRA TUNNEL.

MEN AT BEALEY END CEASE WORK. Thirty-three men employed on the Bealey end of the Otira tunnel ceased work on July Ist,, pending a revision by the Government of the contract entered into by the men about two years ago. When the Minister of Public Works (the Hon. J. G. Coates) was on the Coast, about two months ago, the men applied to him for a new contract or day wages, and conditions equivalent to _ those in force on tho Otira side. Tho 'Minister promised to go into the matter, but nothing further has been heard from him. On Thursday week the men working on the Bealey side had completed their work as defined by the contract, and applied for similar wages and conditions similar to those given to tho Otira gang, as they were asked to do the same work. As tho request was not acceded to, the men ceased work until a satisfactory arrangement was conio to. Yesterday Mr W. Annan, the men's representative, came into Christchurch to place the matter before the Progi - ess League and the Canterbury members of Parliament. Mr P. R. Climie, the League's organiser, yesterday sent the following telegram to tho Minister of Public Works: —"Understand 33 men held up Bealey nending consideration new contract. Men ready work day labour as alternative. Strongly urpe necessity of immodhte consideration. Canterbury members l>f>ing asked to interview you to-morrow." T.aft niirht Mr plimip received the following reply from Mr Contes: "Tele tpx.im rcro.ived. Have noted your representations. Matter is receiving consideration/'