PREFERENCE TO UNIONISTS

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 14690, 26 May 1911, Page 8

PREFERENCE TO UNIONISTS

EMPLOYERS IN COURT.

In - the Magistrate's Court yesterday, before Mr. C. C. Kettle, S.M., the Auckland Certificated Enginedri vers' Union (Mr. A. E. Skelton) proceeded against R. and W. Hellaby, Ltd., for employing a non-unionist while competent unionists were open for employment. It was admitted that a technical breach had been committed, but it was contended that the man-was a member of the Christchurch Union. The prosecution contended that the man should have registered in Auckland, and said the defendants took no troublo to ascertain if unionists were available. His Worship thought that tho man had special ability for tho work done, and was more competent than the unionists available. The information was dismissed.

The Inspector <£ Factories sought to recover the sum of £10 from the Mount Eden Borough Council (Mr. Prendergaat) for employing a non-unionist. The defendants admitted a technical breach, and a fine of 5s was inflicted.

• The Mount Eden Borough Council was also proceeded against '• by tho Auckland Builders, Contractors, and General Labourers' Union (Mr. A. E. Skelton) for employing four non-unionists for gravel work when unionists were available. The union claimed £40 for the alleged breach. The case was adjourned till this morning.