MAINTENANCE OF FENCES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22100, 4 May 1935, Page 10

MAINTENANCE OF FENCES

FARMS BESIDE RAILWAY POLICY OF DEPARTJVIt.NI [JBOM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT] "WHANGAREI, Friday A controversy concerning the maintenance of railway fences has been in progress for some time between the Railways Board and the" Whangaroi aub-provincial branch of the Farmerii Union. At a meeting of the branch this week a letter was from the assistant general manager of railways, Mr E. Casey, denying that the department hacl brought into effect a new policy regarding fences, although in some localities it might appear that the policy had been changed. In outlining the position, Mr. Casey stated that although the department was not bound to fence, and migfl t prosecute for cattle trespass, it could not compel adjoining owflers to fence or maintain dividing fences, except under agreement. Although the departe ment had effected repairs for the safety of the railway, it was not the policy of the department to maintain all Mr. L. Williams said the question was ox great importance in his district. He had two miles of railway fences whiclfe the department to maintain. Mr. A. Wiblin contended that there had been a 'definite change of • policy on the part cf the department, ami quoted instances to support his contention.

It was decided to obtain written evidence of instances of repairs to fences, and to forward this through Mr. H. 0. Mellsop, president of the Auckland branch, to th<> Dominion executive, which is taking up the matter with the Railwaj's Boardi.