HARBOUR BOARD CHAIRMAN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25737, 8 January 1945, Page 5

HARBOUR BOARD CHAIRMAN

RESIGNATION WITHDRAWN DEPUTATION OF FARMERS Subsequent to meeting the deputation of British farmers at Oamaru yesterday afternoon, 40 members of the North Otago Farmers’ Union and the Agricultural and Pastoral Association, representing districts in North Otago from Hampden to Omarama, waited on Mr W. E. Aubrey (chairman of the Oamaru Harbour Board). As a result of their representations Mr Aubrey expressed his willingness to withdraw his resignation as chairman oi the board.

Mr J. Kingan (president of the North Otago Farmers’ Union), who was in the chair, asked members for an expression of opinion on Mr Aubrey’s resignation. All those present expressed the wish as farmers and ratepayers that Mr Aubie> should continue in office as chairman of the board. He was assured of the unqualified support of the country ratepayers for his policy in respect to tne port. Many speakers expressed regret that the proceedings of the Harboui Board had not been as harmonious as they might have been, and said tnc\ hoped that, under Mr Aubreys impartial chairmanship, a happier state of aftans would exist in the future.

In replv, Mr Aubrey traversed the activities of the board since he became a member in 1939. and outlined the difficulties, financial and otherwise, which might arise in the future. He dealt with shipping problems, and expressed tlm hope that the asset of a port would be maintained, and every effort made to improve facilities for shipping so that Oamaru would participate fully 111 ,J’ war trade. Every endeavour should be made, he said, to keep the port open to deal with the shipment of North Otago produce over the Oamaru wharves. In the light of the strong representations made and the unanimous desire oi the country ratepayers that he should continue to represent them as chairman of the board, Mr Aubrey signified his willingness to withdraw his resignation