The Forest And Rural Fires Act

Greymouth Evening Star, 11 December 1950, Page 6

The Forest And Rural Fires Act

Sir, —The report of the meeting of the Grey County Council, published in youx’ issue of the 7th inst. is rathex' alarming to say the least. From the comments passed by the councillors, it is obvious that they are ignorant

of the provisions ox me acl. nunuitedly the council has no fire-fighting equipment. Neither did any other body until some was purchased —and the Act provides for the financing of equipment as well as power to prosecute. It is all very well for the Railways Department and Ministry of Works to be blamed for fires—but I will ask councillors to name any fire that got out of hand this year that was started by the railways or roadmen —in the Grey County district. As for suggestions as to how to prevent fires —implement the Act and control burning and prosecute without fear or favour of any infringements. The criticism offered by the Catchment Board was stated to be “utterly unfair.” Now, who is unfair? The Forest and Rural Fires Act was passed in 1947, vesting authority in county councils. It is now almost 1951 and the Grey County Council has clone what? The question of dry spells is beside the point in this connection — Yours etc. “JOHNNY BELL.” Greymouth, December 11.