Face Set Against Unionism

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 45, 23 February 1938, Page 2

Face Set Against Unionism

WOULD CREATE FRICTION IN SERVICE

Per Press Association. NEW PLYMOUTH, Feb. 22. I The Dominion Conference of the United Fire Brigades’ Association at New Plymouth this morning set its face definitely against any attempt to force volunteer or part time firemen into a union. Very strong efforts are to be made to combat moves in this direction which it was considered would cause serious friction in the service. After hearing statements of representatives of brigades concerned the Conference was satisfied that the adherence of at least some of the individual members of brigades was obtained by misrepresentation of the facts. The Conference called attention to the danger of unionisation of a national service, such as a fire brigade, in the event of industrial disturbance. A sympathetic strike in fire brigades’ union might place not only property, but life in jeopardy.

The conference requested the support of the Municipal Conference to be held next week at New Plymouth. Views are to be placed before the Premier and Internal Minister and Labour Minister, and that the Government be requested that, if necessary, special legislation be introduced to provide for the exclusion of volunteer firemen as defined by the conference from the provision of the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act.