MERCANTILE MARINE DEPENDENTS FUND

Evening Post, Volume XCVII, Issue 26, 30 January 1919, Page 8

MERCANTILE MARINE DEPENDENTS FUND

In consequence of the influenza epidemic, the Commercial Travellers, who were organising the Mercantile Marine and Dependents Fund, were compelled to postpone their effort. At an enthu'siasticr. meeting -- of members held last evening, it was decided to hold a surprise packet feature on the 13th, 14th, and 15th March. Considerable progress has already been made, and this effort promises to eclipse all previous efforts of, the travellers. It was decided to reserve a portion of the funds for distribution in New Zealand, whilst a trustee will be appointed on behalf of the travellers, to apt in conjunction with the High Commissioner in London, to ensure a proper administration of tho fund. It is somewhat remarkable that no effort has hitherto been made to grant relief to the dependents of the members of the Mercantile Marine who have suffered during the war, but the Commercial Travellers have realised the debt of gratitude they owe to the British sailor, to whose unceasing efforts the prosperity of New Zealand is largely due. Regular meetings of organisers are being held, and it is evident that the fund will bo worttiy of the cause.