DISAFFECTED CREW.

Northern Advocate, 23 August 1924, Page 5

DISAFFECTED CREW.

ABOARD THE WAfoTAPU.

DEPARTURE DELAYED,

(Special to "Northern Advocate.") AUCKLAND, This Day.

The crew of the Union Company's steamer Waiotapu refused to take the vessel to sea last night, but gave no reason for their action. The vessel has been in port since August 15 discharging a cargo of Newcastle coal. The work was completed yesterday afternoon and the vessel fixed to sail at 6 p.m. for Vancouver. Repairs to the boilers, however, caused djelay until after 11 p.m. The crew were ordered to take the gangway in and unmoor the vessel, but they refused. Instead they proceeded in a body to Captain A. H. Davey and informed him that the vessel could not sail before S a.m. to-day as they were awaiting instructions from the Seamen's Union. As a consequence the vessel's departure was postponed until this morning.

It was reported earlier in the day that the crew meant to give trouble when the vessel was about to sail. In case of disturbance a number of policemen were in attendance at the ship's side for some hours before she was ready to leave, but nothing untoward happened.

It is understood that the men had no grievance against the master or officers, but were obeying orders from the Union. Some members of the crew stated that an official of the Union was expected to visit the ship early last evening and give them instructions. The official, however, did not put in an appearance. It is reported that the Union objected to some person visiting the vessel yesterday and that a 24 hours 7 strike was declared as a protest. The vessel now lies in the stream. It is understood that she will sail at 5 p.m. to-day.