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Hokitika Guardian, 19 January 1929, Page 4

Tjik 'settlers of the Harihari district will be very pleased that Jlv O’Brien, Member lor Westland, has induced the Hon. Minister of Mines, shortly due in the district, to include South Westland in the ministerial itinerary. The settlers of Inter-Wanganui are very much perturbed about the outlook for the future of the settlement—one of the best in Westland—if something definite is not done to control more effectively the Hood waters of the Little Wanganui river. In former years the Big Wanganui river threatened to ravage the Flat at a time it broke its banks, and devastated a good deal of country. At that time the Government came promptly to the rescue and provided protection which is to-day acting effectively, and protecting the valuable territory involved. A similar problem presents itself on the southern side oi tlie selllcmnt now, and it is clear no puny efforts will suffice to hold the river. It is manifest that a comprehensive scheme must he devised and carried out. The Government engineers unless instructed to act along such lines naturally move very circumspectly hut the conditions now to be faced at Inter-Wanganui leave no doubt as to the scope of the work to he done. Tt must he extensive. In order to focus Government attention, a personal visit by a responsible Minister should he sufficient to impress that gentleman with the. obvious duty which presents itself. No doubt Mr Yeitcli will he given the opportunity of touring the Flat and forming some idea as to the extent and value as a potential settlement. The loss, of such an area as is threatened, if the river is not checked, would lie very great. It is not reasonable to contemplate such a possibility once- the Minister views the situation and the surrounding conditions. Those concerned should therefore seek for a definite pronouncement as to the government policy in this matter, to secure the position before greater inroads are made and greater destruction involved. It is not unreasonable to ask for this consideration in advance of a possible disaster. When the catastrophes occur, it is usual for Governments to rush assistance when the injury is done, and the people suffering ruination. Now is tintime to act before the complete injury is done and it is possible by stitch in time methods to save a greater expenditure and a more tremendous Joss later. We feel sure if the Minister sees the position for himself lie will he impressed and prompted to definite action.