HARBOUR BOARD

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22723, 8 November 1935, Page 12

HARBOUR BOARD

ESTIMATES FOR THE YEAR FURTHER SALARY RESTORATION REDUCTIONS IN DUES The Otago Harbour Board held a lengthy meeting in committee last night, when the estimates for the year were considered, together with various other related matters. The members present were: Mr J, B. Waters (in the chair), and Messrs W. Begg, D. Copland, A. Campbell, J. H. Duncan, T. Scollay, D. F. H. Sharpe, R. S. Thompson, J. Preston, and F. Tyson. SALARY RESTORATION It was decided to restore to all those affected one-half of the first 10 per cent cut in salaries and wages made in June and November, 1931. This means that 15 per cent, of the total cuts of 20 per cent, has now been restored. ADJUSTMENTS IN DUES The ! question of reductions in. dues was also considered, and various adjustments were agreed to, of which the following are the most important: — Import and export dues on new motor vehicles on wheejs—reduced by 10 per •cent. Import dues on cork —reduced from 5s to 3s per ton. Export dues on fresh fruit: —reduced from 3s to Is Cd per ton. The charges on cargo worked overtime were reduced as follows:—Bulk fertilisers, from Is to Cd per ton; other cargo (excluding bulk petrol and oil), from Is to 9d per ton. The harbour master’s fees, which are now one penny a ton, were abolished. The ships’ convenience charge on motor vehicles on wheels and on cargo landed for trimming purposes was also abolished. OTHER CHARGES These reductions represent a sum of £1732 per annum, and will probably come into force on January 1 next. The question of a reduction in the berthage rates on intercolonial and coastal vessels was held over for further consideration, as was also the receiving and delivery charge. It was decided with regret that the financial position of the board did not permit of any other reductions in the meantime. THE ESTIMATES. The final estimates as passed for the year ending September 30 next were as follows: Estimated receipts .. £158,700 Estimated expenditure £158,329