STRAIN ON FINANCE

Dominion, Volume 23, Issue 220, 13 June 1930, Page 8

STRAIN ON FINANCE

Assistance of Workless AUTHORITIES BLAMED Hospital Delegate’s Complaint By Telegraph.—Frets Association. Hamilton, June 12. Some pertinent remarks on the subject of unemployment in his district were made by Mr. W. HUI, of Rotorua, at the Waikato Hospital Board meeting to-day. In pointing out that three schemes in the nature of unemployment relief—those of the Rotorua-Taupo road, afforestation, and baths—were taking place in and near Rotorua, Mr. Hill said the authorities in Auckland and elsewhere were freely and thoughtlessly sending men into the district irrespective of whether jobs were available for them or not. As a result the town had been invaded by unemployed causing a strain on the resources of the hospital board’s outdoor relief fund. He had greatest difficulty in dealing with these cases, a large number of which came before him each day. He did his best for them, at the same time guarding the Interests of the board. Some of the men, said Mr. Hill, were the usual imposters, making a living at the game and adopting it as a profession. Others had tramped long distances *o get to Rotorua as a result of local authorities’ advice. He had seen more than one Instance of men with their toes sticking out of their boots. Many were willing to work but could not get it They were hungry and homeless and one simply had to do something,for them under the circumstances.

It was most unfair of the Public Works Department and the afforestation works to attract men they could not employ immediately, he continued. They often kept penniless men waiting for days while they got authority to employ them. This drain through the outdoor relief meant a heavy tax on the ratepayers, but he could not see how it was to be avoided if one was to exercise any humanity at all. The end was not yet in sight by any means and men were ’still coming through in droves, said Mr. Hill.