DISSATISFIED ARTILLERYMEN.

Marlborough Express, Volume XXXIX, Issue 59, 10 March 1906, Page 4

DISSATISFIED ARTILLERYMEN.

■ ■•■■ WELLINGTON, March,6. -Two of the Permanent Artillerymen, who ■were injured through the big gun" accident at Fort Ballanjje in October, 1904, have made complaint about being dia- ; charged by the Defence Department. f From a statement made by :Maj6r J. E. Hume, however, it would appear that they had every consideration shown them, but they wanted too much, - ~ Slines and Sweeney are the men referred to, and according to Major Hume they were certified as being fit for light duty only, by the medical, officer, and were accordingly put on the lightest possible work that could betfound about the barracks. They were principally engaged sitting in the library, and.keeping the rooms tidy. "In fact," he, said, " they were to all intents and purposes marking time until the doctor decided that they were fit for duty." Slines and Sweeney, Major Hume further stated, objected to being put on light duty, because they considered they would never, be fit for the regular work of Permanent Militiamen again. While they were engaged on light duty they took part in, the regular recreation games, such as tennis, cricket, riding, etc. In the face of this fact, Major Hume said, it was considered rather peculiar that they should object to light-duty.

Some time afterwards these twoimen were asked what they required, and they replied that they would prefer to have their discharges if they could be obtained. They also incidentally enquired what amount they would receive in the way of compensation. They were informed that that question would be a matter for the Department to settle. In due course the discharges were granted. They were subsequently offered a sum of .£SO as compensation, but they absolutely refused to consider the proposal.

Captain Seddon sent for the |men after they obtained their discharges, and kindly offered to assist them in any way he could. He Risked jf they would be agreeable to accept a billet in the Police, Prisons, or Railway Departments if an opening presented itself, The proposition was not received with much favour, " They wanted a good job or good compensation." Captain Seddon then informed the men that they would- require to put their claims in writing, and it is understood one of them has since written claiming .£IOOO compensation.