Reduction in Public Works Employees

Manawatu Times, Volume 65, Issue 270, 2 November 1940, Page 6

Reduction in Public Works Employees

Decrease of Over 9000 NON-ESSENTIAL WORKS CURTAILED Per Press ..^soctatlon. WELLINGTON, Nov. 1. “Compared with the peak figure of 25,153 at this time last year just after the outbreak of war the number of workmen employed on public works has dropped by 9371 to 15,782,” said Hon. R. Semple to-night. “The immense programmo of constructing defence works occasioned by the raised the total number of workmen, including contractors, employees and local bodies employees engaged on subsidised works, from about 20,000 in August, 1939, to more than 25,000 men within a few weeks. “Since then the gradual diminution of tho department’s normal activities has resulted in a steady decline in the number employed. The only classes of works on which the number of workmen shows an increase are hydro-elec-tric schemes, irrigation and miscellaneous works. Hydro-electric development is of course essential to keep pace with tho increasing requirements. “The continuation South Canterbury irrigation construction programme is justified economically and from, the viewpoint of increasing production. The item miscellaneous is largely made up of work carried out on 1 behalf of other departments, notably native housing and sewerage, roading, drainage, etc., for the Department of Housing Construction. ” Mr. Semple added that more than 3000 men were still employed on aerodrome construction and other special defence activities, but as the programme was well advanced 110 expected most of these men would not be required in six months’ time unless an emergency arose. Mr. Semple remarked that the Government and particularly himself had been criticised since tne outbreak of war for not Curtailing the public works programme, thereby making more men available for essential industries. “I think,” the Minister said, “I have made it clear that there has been a heavy reduction. Numerous works which were justifiable in peacetime and could not be classed urgent or productive during war have been severely curtailed or suspended, releasing a good type of workman for industry and the war effort. Although the number ot men at present engaged on public works is 15,782 this figure includes 1876 on the pay roll of local bodies and 3156 employed by contractors.”