RELIEF WORK WAGES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20621, 21 July 1930, Page 11

RELIEF WORK WAGES.

BURDEN ON WELLINGTON.

NO INCREASE POSSIBLE

[BY TKLEGttAI'H.—OWN CORRESPONDENT.] WELLINGTON, Sunday.

No increase in the rate of wages paid on relief works will be made by the Wellington City Council, although strong representations in this direction were made by a deputation to the Mayor, Mr. G. H. Troup. Mr. R. Seinple, M.P., who headed the deputation, said those present represented about 15,000 workmen. They objected to the council's "levelling down" process. Workmen who bad given the council loyal and efficient service in the past were now receiving relief wages. They were not suggesting that all those 011 relief works should be paid award wages, but only those who were really efficient. " I am not, m> far as I can prevent it, going to shake or impair the confidence imposed in the cilv's credit," said tho Ma yor. An additional charge of onehalf of 1 per cent, on (he city's loans would mean an increased annual interest payment of £26,800. and of 1 per cent, would mean £53,600. Relief works were not carried out as cheaply as by contract, and with the right of selection of the men.

During the past three years unemployment, had placed an additional annual interest and sinking fund charge of £12.354 on the ratepayers. They must also remember that there were many householders in the city who were not at present earning on the average 14s a day. "I tlo not see how I could possibly ask the council to increase the rate of pay from 14s a day to 15s 4d," said the Mayor in conclusion. " The council has discussed this matter on several occasions and at great length. Its decision, carried by 11 votes to 4, is that the rate is to be 14s. T have no intention of reopening* the question, and I think your Labour Council would be ill advised to do so."