UNEMPLOYED YOUTH

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21319, 21 October 1932, Page 10

UNEMPLOYED YOUTH

In connection with the unemployed boy problem a striking contrast is presented in the experience of the Auckland and Hamilton committees. Although there is widespread unemployment among youths in the city there is the greatest difficulty in finding boys for farm positions and even in persuading them to go to St. John's camp, where they are offered some preliminary training. A "deeprooted objection to country life" is reported by disappointed workers. In Hamilton, on the other hand, there is a general readiness to accept farm work,if only as a "stop gap." Practically no youths are idle. The inference to be drawn is that Hamilton boys and parents are in closer touch with the farming community and its activities, and the absence of resistance to farm work is proof that the hardships so feared by city people are imaginary. Precisely the same opportunities can be guaranteed by the Auckland committee. Their investigations ensure that no boy will be sent to an unsuitable homestead. A boy is safeguarded against bad conditions of living and what is called "exploitation." Yet much of the effort that is being made is of no value. One member of the Boys' Employment Committee reported that of 25 boys he had interviewed, only one would even consider going to St. John's camp and he still had a job. This may be evidence of lack of parental control or lack of parental responsibility, probably both. Parents expose their sons to grave risk if they prefer to see them idle rather than take a country job. Obviously the hardships and discomforts are being magnified. The consequence will be unnecessary wastage.