THE "STRIKE'LEVIES."

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXVII, Issue 8376, 2 October 1890, Page 3

THE "STRIKE'LEVIES."

TO THE EDITOR. Sir,—On Saturday last the local branch of the Typographical Society, among othet things resolved to continue the strike levy. This, I think, was a false step, and I feel sure its full effect could not have been considered. Now, if I waited patiently, it is just probable the members, on calm consideration of the results of the partial strike here and elsewhere, would rescind that resolution, as they have others of more vital importance ; but as I wish to enter a vigorous protest against any further levies, I take time by the forelock, and "strike" while the iron is hot. The passing of a further levy, I consider, is equivalent to an expressed desire to bring back the evils of the past strike period—the enforced closing of factories, consequent idleness of workmen and workwomen, together with an almost total cessation of vehicular traffic, the curtailment of train, tram, and coastal services. As a member of the A.T.A. I have paid the rirst levy for the sake of peace and quietnoss, for I was not present when ib was struck, but I contributed under protest. I will not detail the discomfort, inconvenience, and expense I was puttowhilethe worstofthestrikelasted ; bub the absurdity of a man paying a levy which was used to prolong a state of affairs inimical to his own interests was forcibly impressed on me. I had no intention of surrendering my private judgment as regards " striking" and levies when I became a member of the A.T.A., and I cannot afford time to attend the wordy meetings which are held so frequently. This illconsie'ered and ill-judged resolution was passed at the last moment, when everyone was wearied, and commonsenso had left the heads of most of those present. No resolution like this should be passed unless due notice is given, and two-thirds of the members are in favour of it. Ib is of more importance to me that my grocer, butcher, and baker, should be paid every week than that I should contribute towards keeping men in idleness ; and I hope the older members will see that their tradesmen's bills are paid, and their children clothed, etc., before paying any more levies—[ mean, those who have incumbrances; as for the younger ones, ib would be better for I b'-in to devote their surplus cash to the Ciiaiiuble Aid Board or the Refuge than lling it away thus. For my part I shall pay no more; and I am not alone in my opinion. What becomes of the money received in " strike" levies, how is it expended, and who receiver the greatest benefit ? If balance-sheets were published, I think they would be eyeopeners, and people would no longer be led by the nose. Unionism was never intended to play such pranks as it has done daring the last few weeks. I have more to say, Mr. Editor, but time, and your space is limited.—l am, etc., A. T.uro