THE PUMICE LANDS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20385, 14 October 1929, Page 14

THE PUMICE LANDS.

Sir, —In view of Mr. E. Earle Vaile's letter in Saturday's Herai.d on the above subject, there are one or two questions I would like to ask him. First, on what grounds he makes the definite assertion that "Mr. Michael Galvin is not » farmer," and if he will produce evidence in support of his statement. Second, on what grounds he makes the statement that "his evidence was entirely discounted and discredited before the committee." From the published reports I have read contrary evidence has been given for and against' the proposed railway, but I have 110b read anything so far that justifies Vaile in publicly making such a - sweeps ing assertion 'against a public servant, especially one in a department which has rendered and is rendering such splendid service to the New Zealand public. I take it for granted that, '/in giving his evidence Mr. Galvin was giving-his honest opinion as a public servant in the public interest, and being so- is entitled to fair-play and proper consideration. Furthermore, it does not seem to me that Mr. Vaile is justified in concluding his letter with the remark that his railway "can be opposed only by misrepresentation and ignorance." Apart from the pros and' cons of the land! itself, the general faxpayer has at leant a slight'interest in the subject. One particular question I would like to ask Mr. Vaile, and that is on the question of "bush sickness'." Can he.tell« us definitely if the particular area he is fighting for is liable to, or free from,, what is popularly called "bush sickness." J. H. Hayes. Glen Eden.