S.R. JOSEPH WARD

Otago Witness, Issue 3327, 19 December 1917, Page 44

S.R. JOSEPH WARD

VISIT TO STEWART ISIiAND. INVERCARGILL, December 14. Sir Joseph Ward received, a warm welcome at Stewart Island to-day. This was his first visit there since his return from England. AIL the residents- turned out to receive him, and the wharf was lined with school children, who joined in the welcome. The Minister was able to spend only a short time on the island, as he had to get back to Bluff to catch an early traim for Invercargill. He gave a. short address in the local hall. The Rev. Jasper Smythe(Anglican) presided. Sir Joseph Ward gave a short outline of what- he had seen in France, and incidentally mentioned thate Stewart Island had done its share by sending 45 men to the front, which was 13 per centr. of the total population of the island. Final victory was coming to Great Britain and her allies—that was certain.

The Rev. I. K. MTntyre, in moving a vote of thanks, referred to Sir Joseph Ward's action in being responsible for New Zealand giving a Dreadnought to the Motherland. It was the action of a farseeing statesman. He was one of the greatest forces in the affairs of the dominion, and Stewart Island was very thankful for him in coming across and giving thern such a slice out of his busy life.

The vote was passed with acclamation, as also was a vote of confidence in him as member for the district.