FUR WORKERS' DISPUTE

Evening Post, Volume CXXIII, Issue 51, 2 March 1937, Page 11

FUR WORKERS' DISPUTE

Conciliation council proceedings were started today, with Mr. M. J. Reardon presiding, in the Wellington industrial district fur workers' dispute. Messrs. W. J. Mountjoy, H. Morris, S. G. James, and A. Good appeared as assessors for the employers, who were the applicants for an award, and Messrs. E. Newton, H. GreenbUrg, L. H. Eberson, and Mrs. C. Gimblett represented the respondents.

At the Outset of the proceedings Mr. Newton maintained that no dispute existed and reserved the right to argue the point. On the other hand, Mr. Mountjoy said that the employees had filed certain claims for an award which were not acceptable to the employers, hence a dispute had been created. After argument on the subject, the various claims and counterclaims which had been filed were discussed.

The employers suggested a 40-hour week, but the employees asked for 35 hours a week from September 1 to February 28. It was difficult enough to get the work done as it was with a 40-hour week, said Mr. Mountjoy in rejecting the 35-hour suggestion. In summer months preparations had to be made for the winter trade, and no further reduction in hours could be countenanced.

E. Johnston and Co., auctioneers/will sell corrugated iron at their mart, 8 Willeston Street; tomorrow morning at 10.30. They will also sell household furnishings at the residence, Seddon Street, Wallaceville, tomorrow at 1.15 p.m.