THE SHIPPING TROUBLE

Southland Times, Issue 17790, 16 October 1917, Page 5

THE SHIPPING TROUBLE

INTERPRETATION OF AWARD. SEAMEN'S UNION IGNORES THE CASE. [Per United Press Association.] WELLINGTON, October 15. An application by the Inspector of Awards for an interpretation in certain clauses in the dispute in the existing agreement between the coastal shipowners and the seamen came before the Arbitration Court to-day. The Seamen’s Union was not represented. Mr Justice Stringer said it was to be regretted that the Union was not present to assist the Court in interpreting the agreement. Mr T. S. Weston, for the shipowners, suggested a short adjournment in order to give the Union a final chance of being represented, which it might do on a word of warning or advice from the Court. Mr Justice Stringer, after consultation with his colleagues, said: “It appears that the Union has had ample notice to attend and I don’t really think there should be any adjournment. I cannot pretend not to know what is going on. I see by the papers the Union says it will have nothing to do with the Arbitration Court, I do not think we should have to go and petition the Union to come here. I think the case should go on.” Mr Weston said the Court as a commission, under regulation 2 of the Trade and Commerce Act, was being asked to decide if, where the manning scale of the Shipping and Seamen’s Act allows small vessels to carry less than six able seamen, it is essential to the safety of such vessels that two deck-hands should be employed on deck at the same time in addition to officers in charge. Mr Justice Stringer: That_ is a most important point. ‘ Mr Weston, addressing the Court on behalf of the owners, said the Union attempted to take advantage of the terms of the new agreement to secure more overtime. He declared that the request for two men in the watch was raised not for the safety of the public but to secure an interpretation which would lead to more overtime. One man in the watch did not mean there was only one on duty. In addition there was always an officer on the bridge, and in bad weather the Captain was either on the bridge as well or within easy call. The owners did not wish to lose their boats or have them damaged, so would not send them to sea inadequately staffed. The one man in the watch system had obtained for about fifty years. A number of ships’ officers gave evidence, all agreeing that one man in the watch was sufficient. Mr Weston was about to call further evidence, but the President said it was unnecessary. The Court reserved decision.