“SIMPLY SHOCKING”

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20074, 21 October 1939, Page 3

“SIMPLY SHOCKING”

METHODS OF RAILWAYS UNLOADING OF HORSES CHIEF JUDGE'S STRICTURES (Per Press Association.) HAMILTON, this day. Amazement at the manner in which the Railway Department dealt with the consignment of racehorses was expressed by the Chief Justice, Sir Michael Myers, in the Supreme Court at Hamilton yesterday, during the hearing of a claim for £BOO damages sought by A. E. Randritp. of Matamata, for the loss of the racehorse Calcutta, which was injured while being unloaded from a train at Rotorua. The horse ultimately succumbed to injuries.

Witnesses employed by the Railway Department at Rotorua had stated that although there was a light in the station yard it was not switched on when the horse was unloaded late at night, and it was also stated that no employee from the station was present to supervise the unloading.

Another witness stated that when the horse was consigned from Thames no declaration of value was received with regard to it.

“On the evidence, the way in which the department conducts its business with regard to the carriage of horses is simply shocking," commented His Honour. “Even if an animal is of small value it is entitled to full business care. The evidence in this case amazes me. A case of this soit. whatever the result may be. may be a blessing in disguise. It may lead to better business methods in future.

The jury found for £290 damages.

Mr. A. T. North, for the suppliant, moved for judgment, but Mr. N. A. Foden, of Wellington, for the Crown, renewed his submission that undci section 15 of the Government Railways Act, 1926, the suppliant was not entitled to more than £ls. The motion for judgment was adjourned.