PUBLIC EMPLOYEES.

Southland Times, Issue 22993, 12 September 1936, Page 5

PUBLIC EMPLOYEES.

To the Editor.

Sir, —In your issue of September 9 appears a statement made in the House by a member (Mr J. H. Barclay), .that even if farm workers did do 60 or 70 hours a vzeek, they were on equal terms with men on public works at 40 hours, as the latter worked harder. Imagine having an electorate represented by a man who is capable of making such an absurd statement. Coming in from the farm frequently for loads of fertilizers, seeds, etc., I see gangs df men on council jobs. If the hon. member could see these so-called workers, he would probably alter his opinion and order a quantity of running shoes. Three or four good men on contract would do as much as 10 or 12. It is said that these men get 16/- per day. If the council funds do not come a crash and the ratepayers are not penalized, then the council must have some wonderful financial genius. On my return journeys with my loads, I see these gangs puting their tools away. I look at my watch, it is 4.15. Therefore, it would appear these men are only on the job about 36 hours.—Yours, etc., FARM HAND. Invercargill, September 11, 1936.