UNEMPLOYMENT

Southland Times, Issue 21897, 24 December 1932, Page 8

UNEMPLOYMENT

GORE COMMITTEE MEETS. CHAIRMAN’S RESIGNATION. The Gore Unemployment Committee met on Thursday evening. Present: Messrs W. D. Shelton (acting-chair-man), J. Sleeman, S. Newell, W. O’Byrne, R. W. Noake, A. J. Kerse, G. W. Whittingham, A. J. Middlemiss. The Central Committee advised that the proposed work on the Gore Experimental Farm had been approved, not more than four men to be employed. The Timaru Unemployment Committee forwarded a copy of a letter forwarded to the Minister regarding the reduction in the allocation and asked for the support of the Gore committee. —lt was decided to accede to the request. _ , , . Mr Shelton was appointed chairman of the committee, and Mr Whittingham deputy-chairman. The filling of the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr Kerse was held over till next meeting, which was fixed for Thursday, January 12. At the conclusion of the business, Mr Kerse’s resignation due to his departure for Masterton was read and accepted with regret. Mr Shelton said he considered Mr Kerse’s work on the Unemployment Committee amongst the most important he. had undertaken at Gore. He handled its affairs in a manner which was an object lesson. The members had the utmost faith and confidence in him, while the meetings had at all times been harmonious and pleasant. In recognition of this the members felt they would like to express their appreciation of his services, and on their behalf he presented him with a set of brushes. Further tributes were paid by Messrs Noake, Whittingham, O’Byrne, Newell and Middlemiss. Mr Kerse said he greatly appreciated 'the kind remarks and the present form his fellow members. He regretted that the unemployed position at Gore had not improved. The town was fortunate in having a number of capable citizens willing to serve on the committee, and he thanked them for their co-operation and support. The most distressing feature of unemployment at Gore and throughout New Zealand was that relating to young boys and girls just leaving school. If they were not careful, a time might arise in New Zealand when there would be a generation of young people disheartened by vain efforts to secure work, and who would grow into being accustomed to this and ultimately might not desire employment. Work was the natural expectation of all young people. It was also essential for their well-being, and he hoped this very serious side of the question of unemployment would never be overlooked. He thanked the postmaster, Mr Noake, for his willing assistance and advice. Like his predecessor Mr McGregor, he was very sympathetic towards the problems of the unemployed, which were by no means easy. The secretary, Mr E. Melvin, had also shown himself a most etticient and courteous official, and he thanked him for his loyal co-operation.