MAORI WELFARE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23504, 15 November 1939, Page 8

MAORI WELFARE

i SPREAD OF TUBERCULOSIS NEED FOR/ACTION URGED [BY TELEGRAPH' —OWN CORRESPONDENT] PALMERSTON NORTH, Tuesday Concern at the rato at which pulmonary tuberculosis is spreading and its ever-increasing toll among Maoris •was expressed at ft meeting of the Horowhemift County Council. The health inspector, Mr. W. J. Guinan, reported that several Maoris had died from pulmonary tuberculosis during October. Mr. A. Gimblett stressed the need for something being done to improve the standard .of living among Maoris, ns he considered this one of the main troubles.

'"'We are very gravely concerned at what is happening to-day and the ravages which pulmonary tuberculosis is making among Maoris," said the chairman, Mr G. A. M or| k* " If it is not tackled as ft national matter it will got progressively worse." Mr. Gimblett said money was being ■spent in tho wrong direction. Efforts were being concentrated on cure rather than prevention. More should bo done in tho homes instead of breeding the disease and then trying to cure it. " Maoris to-day are obtaining their • money too easily," declared Mr. Gimblett. . " Many natives who own land are not using it to'the fullest possible advantage so that they can remain eligible .to draw sustenance. There should be evolved a system to make it necessary for money obtained to be used in making a proper home and giving necessary earo to the wives and families of the Maoris who receive it."