CONCESSIONS OPPOSED

Evening Post, Volume CXII, Issue 105, 30 October 1931, Page 12

CONCESSIONS OPPOSED

HOSPITAL EMPLOYEES

Mrs. J. E. Preston moved at a mooting of the Wellington Hospital Board yesterday: "That the following resolution passed by the board at its meeting held on the 30th July, 1931, be rescinded: 'That free medical treatment to non-resident staff bo discontinued,' and that non-resident members of the staff be entitled to the following con!e#ssions: (a) Medical attention and free treatment at tho Outpatient Department; (o) inpatient treatment at half fees. 5'

In moving the motion, Mrs. Preston expressed the opinion that the rescinding of tho first resolution would be in the best interests of the Hospital; and generally speaking tho rescinding, of tho resolutions would mean tho cultivation of a better spirit amongst the employees of the board. Moreover, the reversion to- the former system was in. accordance with tho principle adopted by Government Departments and many public bodies and private firms.

Sirs. A. M' Vicar seconded the motion. Mr. F. Castle (chairman) expressed the opinion that while members of the board agreed with some of the sentiments urged by Mrs. Preston, they differed ■ from the conclusions arrived at by the mover. Personally, he thought the board should adhere to the decisions recently adopted. Reference had been made to free passes given to railway employees; also to other concessions granted to employees of tho Railway and other public Departments, as well as to employees of some companies and private firms. Ho was of opinion, however, that as trustees of the taxpayers ana ratepayers the board should not rescind tho resolutions adopted at a previous meeting. Mr. W. Cole also opposed the motion in tbe interests of the ratepayers and taxpayors. The motion moved by Mrs. Preston was negatived on the voices.