THE CENTENNIAL MEMORIAL

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25427, 7 January 1944, Page 4

THE CENTENNIAL MEMORIAL

gi r The question of a centennial memorial looms up once again, and I should like to inquire whether the date ot January 15 has been fixed as the limiting date 'before which suitable designs must be sent in to the Mayor ana whether plans or suggestions sent in at a later date will be given consideration. A press notice of the meeting states: “Any organisation or person may have their ideas for a suitable memorial considered, provided same are submitted in writing, setting out full details, to reach the undersigned not later than January la, 1944. Signed A. H. Allen, Mayor Does there not appear to be unseemly haste in the wav suggestions are thus being rushed up ’ for consideration? Practically all organisations comprising citizens engaged in various activities close down all meetings on October 31, the closed period usually lasting till March 1. How, then, are these bodies to get together at this time of the year to discuss anything, much less put forth well-considered suggestions on such an important matter? Even if attempts were made to call emergency meetings, how many could attend in this holiday season? How could architects or builders or various land agents be interviewed in order that 1 plans could be submitted in writing with full details before January 15? Why this unseemly rush? The centenary is more than four years off. They will be years of mental and economic strain and anxiety to everyone. No one can say how long the war will last nor what the economic position will be when it is finally over. Many financial calls will be made to help our returned men dumig the next few years, and such things as expensive memorials should be shelved for a while. Moreover, have not the Otago men who are away fighting for us, descendants of our pioneers, the right to be consulted as to the nature of this memorial, or is the decision to rest once again on the few men who comprise the Centennial Council. and whose judgment is not necessarily that of even a majority of the people? Four years ago a scheme Initiated by the organised women’s societies was accepted by the Centennial Council, but, with a change of personnel in the council following the municipal elections, it was promptly rescinded, members jof the new council refusing lo implement the decision of their predecessors in office. As once again there may be a change of personnel in the council In May, what guarantee have we that history may not repeat itself, and that any scheme decided upon before that date will not be rescinded by 'the new eouncil? As the elections are so close, why snould not the choice cf' a memorial be left to a later date? Those who will be In office at the time the choice is made should be the people to carry It through. The proposal of Mr Stuart Cameron for an extensive community centre is on the same lines as that suggested by him for the commemoration of the New Zealand centenary four years ago. It deserved fair consideration, but it was discarded, I believe on account of expense. The Waipori Park has much to recommend it, but the economic position has deteriorated t in the meantime. So why this haste to clinch matters? —I am, etc., Due Deliberation. Dunedin, January 5.