ABSENTEEISM BY WORKERS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 11 January 1944, Page 5

ABSENTEEISM BY WORKERS

MANY CHRISTCHURCH CASES Many cases of absenteeism among workers after the Christmas holidays have been reported by firms in Christchurch. The secretary of the Canterbury Manufacturers’ Association (M* R. T. Alston) said that absenteeism was just as rife this year as it was last year, in spite of the five-day rest period.

Mr Alston said that the worst offenders appeared to be in the engineering trade, where one firm reported that 40 per cent, of its employees were away on the first two days. The latest report from the factory showed that 30 per cent, of the skilled workers were still away, and 5 per cent, of the unskilled workers. As a result, production in the foundry section had dropped by 50 per cent. Absenteeism in the clothing industry was not so serious, one factory reporting that 12J per cent, of the employees were absent, 10 per cent, without leave.

Inquiries made by a reporter of “The Press” showed that one Christchurch manufacturing firm which reopened last Wednesday, had about two-thirds of its staff away. More women than men were absent, and in some departments none returned. On Monday the number of workers was nearly back to normal. A footwear factory which reopened last Thursday had 19 girls out of 72 away on that day. The number absent without leave increased to 25 on Friday.

To date, only 12 notifications of absenteeism have been received by the District Manpower Office. After full inquiries have ben made, action will be taken against the workers where it is proved that they have been absent without leave. The office has beeu notified by telephone that 40 per cent, of the staff of an engineering factory was absent, and as soon as the official notification comes in appropriate action will be taken.