TO THE PEOPLE OF WESTLAND

Greymouth Evening Star, 21 December 1934, Page 15

TO THE PEOPLE OF WESTLAND

Mr. J. 0 ’Brien, M.P., forwards the following message:—

“Westland has had a wonderful past. She was first pioneered by some of the most intrepid souls that ever trod a strange country. Their mission was to discover a new land where they might be free from the poverty and restrictions of the land they had left; and when they settled in Westland they sought to put into operation legislation that would make the country of their adoption one of the leading countries. Our social legislation shows how far they have succeeded. Still we have to admit we have been slipping back for some time past. If we allow this to continue, we are betraying the memory of those whose work and sacrifice made this civilisation we enjoy possible. Therefore, I would urge all West Coasters to remember the spirit that actuated our fathers, and to carry on their work until once again New Zealand social legislation will be the cynosure of all nation’s eyes. We have work to do: forests to cut: land to clear and cultivate: rivers to train and harness: homes to build; and better still, raise the incomes of our people so that they may participate in the bounteous harvests that an All-Wise Providence has been showering on us. “Wishing you all the most pleasant Jubilee, the happiest of Christmases, and a healthy and prosperous New Year.” _______