THE MILLERTON MINE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 18759, 12 January 1923, Page 8

THE MILLERTON MINE

AN IGNITION OF GAS. As a result of an ignition of gas in one of thp sections of tlio Westport Cbfd Company’s Millerton Colliery, this mine was idle for some days prior to Christmas. The Chief Inspector of Minos having investigated the matter, has ordered safely lamps to bo installed immediately in the affected section, and in the other parts of tho mine as soon as the lamps can bo obtained.

In referring to the matter, the Westport Nows says; “It is very’ unfortunate that tho safety lamps should have to be used in tho Millerton Mine, which is the largest coal mine in the dominion, as it will not only reduce tho output, thereby affecting tho earnings of the miners, but will also increase tho cost of production. Some practical minors are of opinion that it wua only a ‘pocket’ of gas, for the Millerton mine is recognised aa one of tho best ventilated mines in the Southern Hemisphere, but tho Hon. Mr Anderson, Minister of Minds, has often stated in public that tho safety of tho miner must always come first, so Mr Duggan, Inspector of Mines, cannot take any chances. It is only natural that tho Millerton miners are far from enthusiastic over starting tho Now Year with the safety lamp, as tho 4id tier ton extra allowed is poor recompense for the reduced earning capacity, and inconvenience to the miner, through the very poor light of the safety lamp. If tho use of safety lamps m tho Millerton mine is permanent and not a temporary measure, then the advisability of installing an up-to-date plant of electric safety lamps, in place of the present type of oil lamps, is worthy of consideration by the Westport Cord Company, and it is understood is contemplated by that company. Tho much greater output which would bo obtained through the vastly improved light of tho electric lamp, coupled with tho reduction of 41 d per ton, should make it a sound business proposition.”