SEASONAL WORK

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXII, 25 November 1938, Page 3

SEASONAL WORK

FINDING THE MEN MINISTER’S ULTIMATUM [United Frees AsHOc.intinrP WELLINGTON, 24th November. Commenting on the advice of the Minister of Public Works (the Hon. R. Semple) regarding the releasing of men employed on public works for seasonal labour, the Minister of Labour (the Hon. H. T. Armstrong) made the following statement: — “Any worker who is in receipt of sustenance or who is employed under Schmes 5 or 13 will be considered as voluntarily unemployed if he refuses without good reason private employment carrying wages and conditions prescribed by: (i) A current award or industrial agreement; (ii) the current standard adopted by any State Department; (iii) any scheme administered by this Department (including Scheme No. 4F, farm training); (iv) the Agricultural Workers Act, 1936, in the case of farm employees. “A similar position arises if the worker is dismissed by an employer as the result of:—(i) Failing to yield a reasonable return of work; (ii) improper behaviour or practice.” Mr Armstrong suggested to employers that when a worker refused work offered, the facts should be referred to the nearest certifying officer.