STRIKE AT WAIHI.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LXXI, Issue LXII, 14 May 1912, Page 7

STRIKE AT WAIHI.

THE MINES CLOSE DOWN

TWO THOUSAND MEN AFFECTED

BY TELEQBAPH-PBEBB ASSOCIATION,

WAIHI, May 14. Yesterday the air was thick with rumor anent impending trouble between the Miners' Union and. local mining companies over the severance of the engine-drivers from the union, and the formation of a separate union under the Arbitration Act.

The Miners' Union unsuccessfully attempted to induce the engine-drivers to disband the new union. The result was that at 4 o'clock yesterday the afternoon shift did not go to work. The miners held a meeting last night, and resolved nqt to return to work until the engine-drivers rejoin the Miners' Union.

Practically all work has ceased at the mines and batteries. This morning the horses have been brought to the surface. The strike xviU affect about 2,000 men and 3,000 of their dependents. The borough, revenue depends almost entirely on the duty on gold, and this will cease during the strike. The gasworks, sanitary service, hospital, waterworks, and borough matters generally depends entirely upon this revenue. The mine pumps will be stopped this morning, and this will add to the seriousness of the position. .So far as can be ascertained, both sides are firm.