THE PUBLIC SERVICE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume L, Issue 15407, 16 September 1913, Page 8

THE PUBLIC SERVICE.

CONFERENCE OF OFFICERS.

COMMISSIONER'S SYMPATHY.

[by telegraph.—press association.]

Wellington, Monday. A conference of the executive council of the New Zealand Civil Service Association was opened in Wellington this evening, there being a large attendance of members from all parts of the Dominion. The report stated that representatives of the executive committee gave evidence before the Civil Service Commissioner. The matter of classification was the chief subject dealt with. On the appearance of the Public, Service Bill last session copie? were sent to branches for a report, and the executive committee waited upon the Minister in charge of the Bill (the Hon. A. L. Herdman} to place before him numerous representations. The Minister received the deputation well and adopted most of the recommendations made. Since the change of control in the service the Public Service Commissioner has shown his sympathy with the objects of the association by granting it official recognition and by authorising special leave of absence to delegates attending this conference.

The report continued : "In connection with the Appeal Board your executive was of opinion that certain of the regulations concerning the dealing with appeals were ultra vires, and as the matter was of great importance it was decided to take the opinion of Mr. C. P. Skerrett, K.C., who advised that the view of the committee was correct. The master was referred to the commissioner, who consulted the Crown Law Office, and it is now understood that some of the regulations will be withdrawn. In addition to remits from branches, the important subject of the public commissioner's classification of the service will have to be considered by ths conference. The commissioner has asked your executive for an expression of opinion on the question of civic rights to public servants.''

After adopting the report and balancesheet and expressions appreciative of the work of the outgoing executive, the Civil Service Conference adjourned until tomorrow morning, when remits will be considered.

The following are the delegates present: Messrs. G. Allport (president), Oulds, Moon, and Russell (Canterburv), Pope (Auckland), Dixon (Gisborne), Roberts and Murray (Otago), Feifert (Hawke's Bay), Findlay (Southland), Holmes, Mac Donald Fisher, Barr, Wallace, Robinson, Penney' FalL Roberts; Millar, Wright, and Sherwood (Wellington), and Mr. Avery, the general secretary.