Labour Minister Blamed

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 171, 22 July 1939, Page 4

Labour Minister Blamed

UNION SECRETARYS CHARGE Per Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH, July 21. Mr. H. Kilpatrick, secretary of the Canterbury Freezing Works and Related Trades Union, came cut as a critic of the Minister of Labour this morning when commenting on the I.C. and A. Amendment Act, which gives the Minister power to deregister union* and cancel awards. Mr. Kilpatrick declared that the Labour Department was not getting the support it deserved from the Minister, and contended that if Mr. Webb gave his Department full support in enforcing awards the amendment to the Act was unnecessary.

“A question which is still giving the local union concern is the matter of enforcement of the provisions of the freezing works award in regard to dining and dressing accommodation," paid Mr. Kilpatrick. “These provisions were made by Mr. Justice Hunter iu December, 1937, and were to come into force on or after May 15, 1938. 1 ani pleased to say that most of the companies are doing their best to comply with these provisions, w r ith the exception of one firm.

“It is this company which is likely lo be tho cause of some industrial disturbance, which may effect the W'hole industry locally next season, unless it tails into line with the rest of the companies. We have stated the question clearly to the Minister and consider it is now up to him to support his Department in seeing that this company observes the award. More than sufficient time has been given for the provision® to be complied with, and any disturbance which may ensue cannot possibly be laid at our door. The workers have been more than patient, and they are not likely to be deterred by the recent .amendment to the I.C. and A. Act which gives the Minister power to deregister unions and cancel awards.

“I will say definitely that provided the Minister give* his Department lull support iu enforcing awards, hie recent legislation is entirejy unnecessary."