RAILWAY APPEAL BOARD

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXV, Issue 16569, 5 June 1914, Page 2

RAILWAY APPEAL BOARD

SOUTH CANTERBURY CASE. [Per Press Association.] TIMARU, June 4. The Railway Appeal Board sat here this afternoon ancf heard the case of W. Gillespie, guard, with seventeen years’ service (seven as First Grade guard), who was dismissed for failing to issue tickets to two passengers between wayside stations. The tickets were of a total value of 2s 6d. The omission was reported by a passenger. Gillespie admitted it, and was dismissed. Mr Watson, for the appellant, urged that the offence was due to forgetfulness in stress of work. In one case the fare was taken when the guard was busy at Studholnie Junction, and in the otliefr case between the Junction and the next station, when he did not have his book with him. The appellant had a clean record and a good character from citizens, and would not risk his employment by peculation.

Mr Davidson said a large amount of revenue was received through guards selling tickets. Guards must he trustworthv, and no laxity could be permitted.

The Board reserved its decision

The Board also began the hearing of an appeal bv F. P. Bradey, stationmaster at Dunsandel, against non-re-cominendation for increase of salary.