GRIEVANCES OF CREW

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 87, 11 January 1928, Page 3

GRIEVANCES OF CREW

STEAMER FROM AMERICA’. Complaints concerning conditions on the American .steamer West Tagus, which arrived at Auckland from Pacific Coast ports last week, were placed before the American Consul, Mr. W. I‘. Boyle, on Saturday morning by four members of the crew, who claimed authority'to speak on behalf of the remainder of the ship’s company (says the “New Zealand Herald”). A grievance regarding the quality of the water supplied was remedied at the iiislaiice of UieUealth Department. The West Tagus was laid up for some time prior to being chartered for her present vovage, and, according to the ship s captain, the water appeared to be wholesome before the vessel left, but it deteriorated at sea. ’ It appeared also that the men had had a dispute with the mate, and in this matter they were advised by the consul that if they considered the grievance substantial they could take it to the local courts. An Australian member of the crew, at his own request and with the consent of the Captain, was given his discharge. Two Americans" could not be discharged, as thev are without passports, and in anv case it is against the policy of the consulate to agree to the discharge of American citizens overseas , unless they are in a position to provide for themselves. A Norwegian seaman also could "not be discharged without the completion of the formalities attendant on the admission of aliens into New Zealand.