CO-OPERATION AND THE UNEMPLOYED.

Otago Witness, Issue 2046, 11 May 1893, Page 12

CO-OPERATION AND THE UNEMPLOYED.

A NEW PROPOSAL.

There is a Federal Co-operative Association in New South Wales, and a deputation of its members recently waited on Sir Q. B. Dibbs (the Premier) to bring under his notice what was referred to as a "proposed practical project to absorb unemployed labour by the establishment of industrial enterprises and settlements on vacant Grown, lands of the colony, based upon the co-operative plan — i.e., the co-partnership of workers." The Telegraph states that Dr J. M. Creed, M.L.C., introduced the deputation, which comprised Canon Moreton, Captain Trouton, Rev. G. T. Walters, Messrs J. V. Wiley, J. C. Watson (Trades and Labour Council), J. Watson, A. Vernon, J. Hepher, F. B. Gipps, F. Flowers, T. Symons, C. O'Neill, and P. J. Brennan. Apologies [were read from Professor W. Scott (Sydney University), Revs. Dr Harris, Dr Roseby, and H. L. Jackson, and Mr G. Ashcroft.

• The propositions put forward were :— First, that it is the duty of any State to provide against disease and destitution (one of the prime causes of disease), just as it is its duty to provide for the protection and security of the life and property of its people. Second, that provision against destitution, as regards able-bodied men, should never be afforded by way of charity, or unproductive relief works, which tend only to pauperise and further demoralise them, but should be afforded in such way as to encourage their self-reliance, and to render them, as soon as possible, permanently independent of State assistance, whilst serving at the same time to develop the resources of the country. Third, that a judicious development of productive co-operation leading to a well-regulated organisation of workers of all classes, for their mutual support and assistance, whilst increasing the confidence of such workers to rely on their own exertions and resources, would in time leave the State to provide only in a very modified way, for the support of the aged, infirm, and improvident, from which no nation can hope for entire exemption. Fourth, that the inception of a well-regulated system of productive co-operation is worthy, therefore, of the countenance and support of the Government, especially under present circumstances, when the cessation of public works and the unprecedented depression in every industry has led to widespread distress and destitution, which it is to be apprehended will increase shortly to formidable proportions unless provided for in some way. It was therefore suggested that the Government should proceed with the construction of a railway loop-line from Blacktown to Blayney, reserving about five miles on each side for selection. The first section of this line, is waß suggested, should be handed over for construction to an industrial co-operative association formed by calling for volunteers from the unemployed, who would consent to construct this first section on the understanding that they received one-third of their wages in cash and the remaining twothirds in paid-up shares of their association. It is estimated that the first 16 miles of this section could be completed by 500 men in 34 weeks, or eight and a-half months, at a cost of £62,304. Of this sum £15,300 would be required to pay one-third wages and tools, whilst £19,396 would be required in three different payments within the eight and a-hal£ months to cover the cost of permanent way and equipment. With this half section completed it is promised that the association would be in a position to raise capital for the completion of the first section on its own securities. The Government were asked to advance the sum of £34,696 to cover one-third wages, tools; permanent way material, and rolling stock. This advance should be made chiefly in monthly payments through a board of trustees. Government would only advance as a loan a certain sum on current rates of interest, the return of which would be absolutely insured on account of the first lien they would have on the enterprise. Sir G. B. Dibbs thought the members of the deputation were sailing in the clouds. The Government would be willing to give land, and perhaps something more, but someone would have to be responsible for the proper use of it. If a practical scheme were proposed it would be considered, but it must be more practical and definite than that submitted. Things were changing nowadays, and the good old-fashioned rule of the master being responsible for the servant was cast aside to make way for new theories, which might last just long enough for people to learn that the good old rule was, after all, very mnch the best. The scheme might go on, if it were given effect to, just so long as the men felt inclined to work; and then, when there was a tough pinch to be got through, and the day was hot, it would be a case of down tools and everyone would walk out on strike, and the work could get on as best it could,