WATERFRONT DISPUTE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIX, Issue 95, 22 March 1939, Page 11

WATERFRONT DISPUTE.

THE WELLINGTON MEETING. Per Press Association. AVELLINGTON. March 21. In a statement after the meeting of watersiders this morning, Ali> J. Roberts (national secretary of the W’atersiders’ Union) said that a lengthy discussion took place regarding the position on the waterfront, which was stateil by the men to have been caused by the employers’ refusal to negotiate with the national union. The Aiinisters (Hons. P. C. AYehb and PEraser) explained the policy of the Government regarding the necessity for continuous supplies of New Zealand produce for overseas markets. The speakers included Air J. Flood, president of the New Zealand A\ atcrside Workers’ Union. A resolution was carried that the men resume normal working and that the national body commence immediate negotiations with the employers ior a new Dominion agreement, the present award having expired last July. The Ministers thanked the men for the hearing and for the expressions of loyalty to the Government, after which a resolution was carried of full confidence in the Prime Minister and the Government. A substantial number of non-union-ists have been engaged for work this afternoon. It is stated on behalf of the AYatersido Labour Bureau that after manning the Piako, Rangitata, Doric Star, Karu and Foxton, the five boats principally concerned in dismissals of the past few days, 400 union men will be left. Requisitions have been received for 1100 men, leaving a shortage of 700. There appears, however, to he an ample supply of non-union labour. It is understood that all men arc being started afresh. Work was resumed shortly after 1 o'clock this afternoon.