HARBOUR AFFAIRS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXX, 8 October 1936, Page 8

HARBOUR AFFAIRS

- (To The Editor)

Six, In last Monday s issue rf yom* paper, there appeared a letter signed "Another Ratepayer”, in which .1 am accused cf making a very ridiculous statement at the opening of the Slipway. last Saturday morning. Here is that portion ox the letter I have cut out of the newspaper—“ Sir,, —In his remarks at the opening of the new harbour slip on Saturday, the chairman of the Harbour Board said that the Board wouVl tale no notice whatever of any newspaper correspondence, whether anonymous or otherwise, relating to harbour affairs, I sincerely trust that this statement represents the chairman’s own sentiments, and not those of the Board.” The statements of every public man are open to criticism. It is to be expected, however, that every would-be critic should be certain of the facts of his charge, lest they be unwarranted or untrue; in this case they are both. After referring to the dredge, this is what I said (I am quoting from my notes) “The Board has other important work ahead, including the ‘surge,’ the seriousness of which is fully realised. The Board is the trustee of the ratepayers, and must not make mistakes; when the proper solution is found, then it will be dealt with, and not before, and all the writers through the Press, anonymous or otherwise, will not stampede the Board.”

I cannot think that “Another Ratepayer” would wilfully seek to discredit me in the eyes of the public. Possibly he was not close enough to.hear what I said, or he has been told that I made the absurd statement he has credited me with.—l am, etc.. ALFRED GOULD. Chairman Nelson Harbour Board. Nelson, Bth October.