ON THEIR RETURN

Evening Post, Volume CXXX, Issue 134, 3 December 1940, Page 6

ON THEIR RETURN

Fortunately New Zealand has not yet had to meet heavy calls for treatment and rehabilitation of soldiers invalided from overseas. But it is advisable that full preparations should be made for such service before it is needed. The statement made by the Minister of Defence yesterday shows that the subject has had attention and a scheme has beenj prepared. The general principles accord fully with the public desire that those who suffer in the service of the country should, so far as this is possible, receive the best treatment that can be given to restore their health and to enable them to take their places again in civil life. Arrangements have been made for hospital treatment, whether as inpatients or as out-patients, for convalescence, and for re-employment or pension. The problems that will arise will not be in deciding the lines of a general scheme,, but in the practical provision of machinery and means for its operation. Experience in the Great War should be a useful guide as to the provision necessary for invalided soldiers. But in re-employment new ! difficulties may be encountered because conditions are different. To be sure, there is legislative provision that all ex-soldiers shall be reengaged by their former employers; but this will not meet all needs. Some employers may be out of business, some returned men will be unfit for their former occupations, and some will seek a change. < The association of the State Placement Service in the Government scheme indicates that the nature of the problem is perceived. We suggest, if this hasj not already been done, that other agencies be invited to join in consideration of the necessary preparations. Representatives of employers' organisations, technical schools, manufacturers, and farmers, if consulted at this stage would be able to guide plans so as to assure the full co-operation later of all who could assist. .