FARM LABOUR SHORTAGE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24345, 9 July 1940, Page 5

FARM LABOUR SHORTAGE

TO THE EDITOR Sir, —Whilst agreeing with “ Farmer ” as to the way in which some farm hands keep their huts; I would say that that fact does not constitute a sufficient reason for so many farmers neglecting to improve accommodation conditions in general where circumstances warrant an improvement. Too many farmers provide for permanent occupation poor quality huts, no sanitary conveniences, no water laid on, though it is laid on in the house, cowshed, garden, etc., no bathing facilities, and none for washing clothes. Is it any wonder that disgusted employees object to such conditions and leave the farms permanently if possible? For an important industry farming employs permanently too few married men, and that is another reason why farm work is unpopular. “ Only bachelors need apply ” is far too common a condition of employment. Large numbers of intelligent, ambitious, and very often well educated youths are exported from the country to seek jobs in occupations providing better opportunities for advancement than a rural occupation has to offer. Compared with the occupations —and that includes nearly all—which are governed by uniform conditions of employment and have in-

spectors to sge that these conditions are adhered to. the farm labourer, and especially the really competent man. is considerably worse oil than the skilled man elsewhere, especially in regard to wage rates and social status. — I am, etc., C’ave Cancra.