M.E.D. MANAGER'S RETIREMENT

Press, Volume XCIII, Issue 27912, 8 March 1956, Page 14

M.E.D. MANAGER'S RETIREMENT

TRIBUTES TO MR J. C. FORSYTH CITY COUNCIL FUNCTION Mr J. C. Forsyth, who retired as engineer-manager of the Christchurch Municipal Electricity Department in December, was honoured by the Mayor (Mr R. M. Macfarlane, M.P.) and members of the Christchurch City Council at a party held at the Sign of the Takahe last evening. Mr Forsvth joined the staff of the M.E.D. in 1920 as assistant electrical engineer. He became chief electrical engineer in 1925. He held that position until 1949. when he was appointed engineer-manager. On behalf of the council. Mr Macfarlane presented Mr Forsyth with a camera, and Mrs Macfarlane presented Mrs Forsyth with a bouquet. In the 35 years’ service Mr Forsyth had given—a long period in the development of the city—the transformation that had taken place at the M.E.D. was obvious, said Mr Macfarlane. Mr Forsyth had grown up with the M.E.D., and because of his conspicuous ability, he had done a highly valued job for Christchurch. The M.E.D. was one of the biggest economic concerns in Christchurch, with a capital of about £2,500,000 and a yearly income of about £1.250 000. said Cr. G. Manning, chairman of the council’s electricity committee. The efficiency of the department's system, recognised by power boards throughout New Zealand, was largely attributable to the great ability of Mr Forsyth. The structure of the M.E.D. was a monument to his fine work. How much the progress of Canterbury depended on the person who moulded the policv of electrical supply was not generally known, said Cr. Mary McLean, who has been a member of the electricity committee for many years. This policy was moulded by engineers, and to some extent by committees of specialists. “Women do not always realise the difficulties of keeping up the supply of electricity into homes, but I want to thank Mr Forsyth for what he has done on behalf of the women who have benefited from his work.” she said.

It was the duty of a technical officer to investigate problems that arose, to arrive at an honest conclusion, and then to have the courage to ma’ e recommendations accordingly, said Mr Forsyth, in his reply. If the officer’s recommendations were not accepted, then it was his duty to carry out the instructions given by higher authorities. He thanked the Mayor and councillors for the hapny relationships which had prevailed during his years in office.