The Pukekohe and Waiuku Times WEDNESDAY, 31st JULY, 1912. THE FIRE BRIGADE.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 1, Issue 21, 31 July 1912, Page 2

The Pukekohe and Waiuku Times WEDNESDAY, 31st JULY, 1912.

THE FIRE BRIGADE.

"We nothing extenuate, nor set down aught in malice

Now that the Fukekohe Borough Council is gutting into its stride we trust that it will be able to find time to thoroughly investigate tho housing, plant and genoial organisation of tho local Fire Brigade. Tho efficiency of tho appliauces ought to be immediately reviewed, and the proficiency of members testod. It cannot bo expected that Brigadesmen will maintain heart and enthusiasm if they continue to be as coldly neglected as thoy have boeu in tho past. At the last mooting of the Borough Council it was decided that the Brigade in future incur no debts except with the approval of the Council. That restriction may be all right tomporarily, but it will not do as a permanent arrangement. In our opinion success will only be achieved by the brigade being self-governing, and by having its fiuauce assured to somo definito extent. That tho Borough Council is tho proper authority to provide tho funds goes without saying. Perhaps the best arrangement would be for tho Council to grant an annual subsidy to the Brigade, sufficient to cover actual working expensos. A Fire Brigade Committee should be appointed by the Borough Council, and at least one member of this committee should be ex officio a member of the managing committee of the brigado. The brigade would then bo in a position of self-governing responsibility, having a direct connecting link with the Council. The sound establishment, adequate equipment, and proper management of the brigade are matters of vital importance, and townspeople should do all in their power to assist in every possible way the praiseworthy efforts of the volunteers.