SHORTAGE OF DOMESTICS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22165, 19 July 1935, Page 15

SHORTAGE OF DOMESTICS

Sir, —It is without surprise I read of the shortage of capable domestics, but I am indeed astonished to read also that the immigration of trained girls is viewed as a remedy. Surely anyone can realise why it is girls refuse private house work. The hours are disgraceful. The average domestic commences her day at 6.30 a.m. by lighting the fire and finishes around 7.30 p.m. by sweeping the kitchen. Time off is equally appalling. One afternoon off a week is given and also every alternate Sunday afternoon. Evenings are generally limited. Consider the type of work expected. It is purely "no job too big, no job too small." Then the wage; a capable girl receives 10s while a mother's help gets 5s or 7s 6d, perhaps less. The "good home" is merely an apology. It is every girl'B right to expect a good home with the wages offered. With these facts we still wonder why there is a scarcity of capable girls Reliable, capable girls are generally imposed upon to such an extent they are glad to take the first office or shop position they can get. The girl who is "good with children" has a particularly trying time. Home life as the usual domestic sees it is not going to be encouraging for the girls who are expected to become future mothers. Ex Domkstic. !