Rahabilitation

Manawatu Times, Volume 68, Issue 24, 29 January 1943, Page 6

Rahabilitation

DISCUSSED BY THE POWER BOARD At Tuesday’s meeting of the Dannevirke Electric Power Board, a letter was I received from the Rehabilitation Board l concerning the rehabilitation of members of the staff after w r ar service. The chairman (Mr. M. O. Grainger) said this problem was a serious one confronting New Zealand at present. On behalf of the Board, he had devoted considerable thought to it, and realised that they were in a different position to others. Whatever they did would be revenue producing, while, no doubt, amongst some other local bodies it would I be a case of using ratepayers’ money, j A comprehensive report had been prepared and this was read by the secretary, Mr. T. H. Pickard. This showed that approximately 6 miles of line could be constructed in rural districts, which w-ould serve at least 89 new consumers. There were prospects of employing in--1 creased staff to undertake the work, the I cost of which was approximately £27,500. Mr. F. "Craven .remarked that members were indebted to the chairman and executive officers for the details supplied. Mr. 11. P. Horne raised the question of the financial undertaking. Although the Board at present had certain credit balances, it could borrow money for the rehabilitation of men. Mr. Hansard: This is a post-war problem, and if we had no pow’er to supply it would fall flat. Other members i*emarked on the necessity of assisting to give employment, but Mr. Gregg said he was frightened the Rehabilitation Board might pigeon hole the scheme.

Mr. Horne: We should endeavour to fall in with the wishes of the Rehabilitation Board and help soldiers. He knew tlu: scheme was debatable. Mr. H. Stratford: Ours is based on productivity. After further discussion, the report was adopted, with the exception of matters referring to provision for the erection of houses. This was deleted.