FREEZERS’ STRIKE

Greymouth Evening Star, 16 June 1922, Page 5

FREEZERS’ STRIKE

SETTLEMENT PROSPECTS.

(Per Press Association.)

CHRISTCHURCH, June 15.

The freezing industry strike which Las extended throughout the South Island, is regarded in independent quarters/ as particularly sinister, in view of the fact that a small section of the workers has compelled the large body to go out. The prospect of a serious split in the ranks of the union, if a settlement is not soon reached, makes the position of the companies more hopeful to-day, than it has been. Alternative proposals were put to the delegates at Islington by Mr W. IL Hagger, Conciliation Commissioner, in a two hours’ conference. Acting quite independently of the companies, he told the men that he did not wish them to"go against their executive or union, but he thought they should make themselves felt as the representatives of the local union. He suggested either that a secret ballot should be taken, or that the men should return to work, and await the decision of the Arbitration Court on July 3, in the meantime, asking that any decision of the Court should be made retrospective to June 1, the date on which the bonus reduction was made.

The delegates decided to go into committee to discuss the proposals and afterwards informed Mr Hagger that they were making certain recommendations to their executive. A meeting of the executive cannot be held before Friday.

PROSECUTION PROBABLE.

Per Press Association.)

CHRISTCHURCH, June 15.

It is understood that a prosecution is almost certain to be brought against the employees of the freezing companies in North Canterbury for an illegal strike. Although no definite statement has been made by the union as to the reason of the strike, it is generally understood that the action was taken as a protest against the 5/- bonus reduction.

FREE LABOUR.

INVERCARGILL, June 15.

The Southland Frozen Meat Company has decided to re-open the Makarewa Works next Thursday with free labour. It is understood that the proprietors of the Ocean Beack Works contemplate a similar action at Bluff.

NO DEVELOPMENTS.

CHRISTCHURCH, June 16.

The deadlock in the freezing industries continues. Mr Niall, Secretary of the New Zealand Freezing Workers’ Federation, returned to Christchurch from South, but said that he had no statement to make. He expected the next move to come from the companies.