Trade Union Representation On E.P.S. Body

Northern Advocate, 28 May 1941, Page 8

Trade Union Representation On E.P.S. Body

“Let the director appoint the trades unions to carry on the work of the Emergency Precautions Scheme organisation if he is not satisfied with what we have done.” This statement was made at the meeting of the Whangarei executive of the E.P.S. last night by Mr. T. Mitchell, when the following letter was read from the Director of National Service:

“In submitting to local authorities ih 1939 an outline of the Emergency Precautions Scheme, the Government made special reference to the desirability of giving trade unions adequate representation on the executive, and the several committees, and in this connection I quote hereunder paragraph 8 of the Emergency Precautions Scheme Handbook: “The labour organisations are the best source of volunteers for the Emergency Corps, and are also in close touch with large sections of the community. If the Emergency Scheme is to be prepared and worked efficiently, appropriate labour organisations should be asked to cooperate; they should be represented on local committees.” Trade Unions Net Represented

“It would appear that this recommendation has not been given effect to in all cases, and in view of the large section of the community represented by the trade unions, and of the demands which will be made upon their members in an emergency, all organisations should ensure their fullest co-operation by providing representation for them on apropriate committees.

“For instance, the Works Committee could have a member to represent the carpenters, plumbers, labourers and other related unions, and the Transport Committee a member to represent the drivers, tramways and other related unions. If steps have not already been taken by your organisation in the direction indicated, the Government would be pleased if you would arrange for the matter to receive early consideration. “In providing for representation from the trade union movement it is particularly recommended that they should be asked to submit nominations and that care should be exercised to select persons who by reason of their qualifications and experience could render the best service. “It would be desirable also that at least one person widely representative of the trade union movement be included on the Central Executive.”

“Rubbish,” Says Mr. Mitchell Continuing, Mr. Mitchell said that his understanding of the constitution of the organisation was that the controllers of each section with the Borough Council formed the executive. This executive had been in existence for a considerable time. “This is rubbish,” said Mr. Mitchell, referring to the Director’s remarks regarding labour organisations. “There is no class distinction in this organisation. The Government are the only ones to raise that question. Labour men are taking their part in all sections of the E.P.S.” Mr. Mitchell then moved that the letter be not received. “There may be Labour men on the committee,’ ’said the Mayor (Mr. Jones). “We do not keep a very close tab on that sort of thing in this district.” . No Action to be Taken After further discussion the letter was received, but no action is to be taken, Mr. Mitchell voting against the receiving of the letter.