TRAM STRIKE

Manawatu Standard, Volume LII, Issue 141, 17 May 1932, Page 5

TRAM STRIKE

TRIBUNAL’S DECISION. Per Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH, May 16. In giving liis decision in the tram strike investigation, Mr Donnelly, chairman of the tribunal, states: “I express no opinion on the moral responsibility of either party for the strike, but the strike has hurt, and will hurt, the community and tho Individual citizens in many different ways, and I do say that the strike was without necessity or excuse. I heard evidence and arguments on both sides, and the charges and counter-charges which were made, and in my opinion it was proved that during the critical days and hours before the strike, and immediately after the strike, the differences between the board and the union, when fully explained and clearly understood, were unimportant in principle and insignificant in fact. At the tribunal hearing both parties, through their representatives and officers, calmly and earnestly sought to agree, but failed because of the employment- of new men.” UNION’S ATTITUDE. Per Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH, May 16. Members of the union held meetings this afternoon and evening to consider the award made by Mr Donnelly, and the tribunal. At the conclusion of the meeting tonight the union made a statement which in effect is a rejection of the decision of the chairman of tho tribunal on the ground that it is too indefinite to bo acted upon. The union makes an offer to the board of another basis of settlement—namely, that all the traffic staff be reinstated in their former position and that they ration the work with the 60 volunteers who Mr Donnelly stipulates must be retained in employment. Tho union makes a proviso that all other members of the union' in other departments be reinstated in their former positions.