THE FIRE BRIGADE

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LVI, 13 October 1922, Page 5

THE FIRE BRIGADE

(To Vie Editor) Sir, —Kindly allow mo space to bring before your readers the necessity of the .Nelson Volunteer Fire Brigade having a benevolent or accident fund. 1 pre- ( suxne the public know my Brigade 1 numbers 24 members and 2 messengers, volunteered for service day or night—at call—without |ara|tot for’ sendees rendered. The fund® for the purchase and upkeep of the gear etc. are provided by the City Council on their estimates at the beginning of each financial year. This amount is carefully handled by a finance committee of the Brigade, with two councillors ex officip and the accounts are audited annually by the Town Clerk. At times the full amount of this allowance is not drawn. Recently an accident happened at a fire when one of several firemen falling through the collapse of a ropf and veranda, sustained .painful injuries to his shoulder and, for over two months has not been able to follow his usual occupation, nor will he be able to do so for some tune. Under the insurance system of the United Brigades’ Association this member receives 31)/- a week. Now, as his employer could nob be expected to continue to pay- hia wages we feel it is not right for him. to suffer the loss himself, but we have no fund from which we are allowed to make his wagesVgood. My officers have ‘ put the matter before the City Council and recently held a conference with the Council representatives, at which the Mayor presided, and it was suggested that an appeal be made to the public to provide a fund which we could legally draw on lor requirements as above. It was generally thought the City Council could donate to thi& fund after providing for it on next year’s estimates. I do not think it is necessary for me to point out to the public anything about the good work so willingly dono by i the Nelson Brigade, but I trust citizens will show their appreciation by forwarding to you or the writer their donations, which will be acknowledged through your columns. I am, etc., ALBERT DEE, Captain, N.V.F.B.