CHARGES AT ROTORUA.

Evening Post, Volume LXXVII, Issue 137, 11 June 1909, Page 8

CHARGES AT ROTORUA.

A representative deputation of Auckland members of Parliament waited upon the Hon. T. Mackenzie this morning to make representations on behalf of the Friendly Societies of New Zealand in regard to the increased charge at the Rotorua Sanatorium from 21s to 30s. Mr. Poole said there was a f eeling of dissatisfaction amongst the societies at the increased charge, which would be a handicap lo institutions which save the Government considerable expenditure. Mr. W. T. Jennings, M.P. said there were 56,817 members of Friendly Societies repiesenting, with dependents, a population of 250,000. The funds of societies amounted to £1,118,217. The sum of £58,939 had been paid in sick benefits and £11,085 for funeral expense?. Only six members at a, time were admitted at the sanatorium and no member was admitted unless his lodge certified that he needed relief. Under the circumstances the Government might consider the question of maintaining the fee at 21s. The Minister, in reply, said the cost to the department ior each patient over and above the 30s paid, was 12s a week. However, he fully recognised the good work the Friendly Societies were doing. He desired to assist them in every way he could. He had had some conversation on the subject with Dr. Valintine, and wanted the Sanatorium to be as useful as possible. (Hear, hea,r.) The representations of tke deputation would be submitted to Cabinet.