HARBOUR LIGHTS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23202, 28 May 1937, Page 10

HARBOUR LIGHTS

MISCHIEVOUS INTERFERENCE REWARD FOR INFORMATION Interference with harbour lights, particularly in the vicnity of Quarantine Island, was one of the matters discussed at the meeting of the Otago Harbour Board last night. The effect which these mischievous acts might have in rendering shipping liable to serious damage was emphasised, and it was decided to offer a reward for information leading to the conviction of any person offending in this respect. It was reported to the board that during a recent week-end one of the lights on Goat Island was tampered with and the red glass broken, while the ladder was removed from another beacon, which was broken into and left in a filthy condition. Interference with harbour lights, it was stated, was regarded as a serious offence, rendering the perpetrator liable, in addition to the expenses of making good any damage occasioned, to a fine of £2OO, or, in default, to imprisonment for any term not exceeding 12 months, with or without hard labour. It was further stated that interference with lights was not the only loss which the Harbour Board had suffered in this locality. A building left on Goat Island some years ago had. been destroyed by irresponsible individuals of the type who find pleasure in wanton destruction. Steps were being taken for the detection of offenders, it was added, and in the event of a prosecution it was probable that a salutary penalty would be asked for.