IRRIGATION.

Dunstan Times, Issue 3140, 23 October 1922, Page 4

IRRIGATION.

On this subject the Public Works, Statement says: Irrigation works arc of a peculiar nature. They are very similar to development roads in that they enable settlement to take place and production to be effected, which would be impossible without the water supply which they provide. It is, of course, desirable that in addition to paying their way they should also provide interest and sinking fund, but in this respect the call for repayment of interest should not be so strong in the case of hydro-electric undertakings. For every acre irrigated the State as a 1 whole gains in many ways. Although the tolal number of sheep in the dry counties surrounded the decreased between 1914 and" 1923 the numbers carried by the irrigated, ares actually doubled, the increase being progressive and keeping pace with the increasing of water. The increase in irrigation receipts ever since irrigate ion water was first made available has been sustained, and this year, I am glad to say that there has been a substantial surplus ol" receipts Over working expenses and maintenance costs. But more has yet 10 be earned —and it can be earned—to recoup the State for its expenditure.