Bombshell For Board

Manawatu Times, Volume 61, Issue 72, 26 March 1936, Page 6

Bombshell For Board

Firemen Anticipate Change of Conditions

CONSIDERABLE EXTRA COST INVOLVED Per Pres 3 Association. AUCKLAND, Last Night. “That is a bit of a bombshell,’’ remarked the chairman of the Auckland Metropolitan Fire Board (Air. J. J. Kingston) at the board’s meeting when a letter was received from the Auck land Fire Brigades’ Union, stating its intention to tile au application lor a new award and outlining a new system of duty hours in anticipation of tho Government introducing legislation for a 40-hour week. The letter stated that tho current award expired in 1032 and had not been renewed.

“An entirely new Arbitration Act will very shortly bo in force,’’ continued tho letter. “We realise, of course, that a 40-hour week for fire brigadesmen is not at present practicable, but the adoption of a platoon system by the brigades of the Dominion will be a step in the direction of Ike Government’s policy of shortening working hours.” The union intended to file an application for a new award as soon as convenient after the Arbitration Act was amended. It also suggested that the Fire Board should give consideration at its annual meeting to proposals regarding the hours which were aimed at to bring firemen in line with other workers. In regard to the shorter hours under the proposed “platoon system,” the day shift would consist of ten hours and the night shift of 14 hours. A change-over would be made fortnightly and every employee would bo allowed 14 days off weekly. “If it is found that special legislation is necessary to give effect to these proposals,” concluded the letter, “the Government will be asked to introduce whatever legislation is necessary.” The chairman said he could scarcely appreciate the terms of the letter, especially in view of the board’s recent visit of inspection. There had been no expressions of dissatisfaction then, and he could hardly conceive the men putting the board to this expense. In regard to hours, firemen were like seamen; they were not working all the hours they were on duty. Certain duties had to be carried out, but after that most of tho men were standing hy-

“Our men have been well sheltered during'the years of tho depression,” added the chairman. “Their conditions have been much better than most workers, and they have every fourth day ns leave.” As lie saw the platoon system, it would mean almost doubling the present, staff of firemen. There were over 40 men on the permanent staff.

While he had not had an opportunity of assessing the cost, continued Mr. Kingston, ho fancied the proposed scheme would add between £BOOO and £IO,OOO to the board’s estimates annually. This would mean increased cost to contributing local bodies. The board received the letter and decided to obtain a report from the superintendent on what the suggested scheme would involve in staff and wages.