2408 Watersiders Work At Auckland

Northern Advocate, 19 August 1949, Page 5

2408 Watersiders Work At Auckland

AUCKLAND, Fri. vP.A.)—The port of Auckland swung into activity today after being idle fo>- seven working days. Two thousand watersiders, including 400 non-unionists, began handling about 50,000 tons of cargo in ships. Vessels at the wharves include 11 overseas freighters. Counting those anchored, there are 29 overseas and large coastal vessels here. Overtime will be worked on the Auckland wharves tonight for the first time in nearly eight weeks. Before resuming work this morning the unionists held a brief meeting to receive reports and then in good humour went to the engagement bureau. There was a rush for the engagement boards and most of the discs were cleared by 8.30. LABOUR FOR TOMORROW Labour for tomorrow morning was requisitioned today in accordance with the usual practice. Commission control with a guaranteed wage and the cooperative contract system has not yet been restored to the Auckland waterfront. This was a surprise to some watersiders who thought that on resuming they would automatically qualify for the old privileges. These were withdrawn by the suspension of the main order of the commission a few days after the men refused on June 27 to work evening overtime.

Union representatives are to meet the Government next week to discuss re-establishment of commission control. Meanwhile, the commission continues acting in an administrative capacity as employing agent for shipping companies. BANANAS AND POTATOES There was such a heavy demand for labour today that all requirements could not be met. The discharge of 20.000 cases of bananas brought by the Matua from the islands yesterday was started immediately. Sacks of South Island potatoes which came ashore in the first sling from the freighter Waipori appeared to be _ ir. reasonable condition, notwithstanding the long time in the hold. Only two gangs were available to work the hatches of the Waiana which has thousands of bags of potatoes.