EFFECT OF ACT ON LODGE

Southland Times, Issue 23774, 23 March 1939, Page 8

EFFECT OF ACT ON LODGE

SOCIAL SECURITY PROVISIONS CO-OPERATION OFFERED TO GOVERNMENT The session of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of New Zealand, which is being held in the United Friendly Societies’ Hall, was continued yesterday. The report of the Grand Master (Bro. H. J. Clark) was presented at the session and the report emphasized that the-lodge, to retain as much influence in the future, as it had in the past, must have constructive leadership in the guidance of thought and action and must devote itself to promoting the usefulness and increasing the influence of the order. District organization for the consolidation ana extension of the order was essential to results in the field of competition that existed in the fraternal sphere. The session considered proposed amendments to the constitution of the society and this order of business is proceeding. It is expected that the conference will continue until tomorrow. “It is the exercising of the humanitarian principles for which we stand that wifi stimulate interest in the minds of people generally about the true mission of our order,” stated the Grand Master’s report. “There was a great deal of activity during my first year of office which gradually decreased because of the uncertainty of future conditions and the hesitancy of potential members to join the order pending the outcome of the Social Security Act proposals. In 1937 a membership increase of 800 was recorded and, although the figures for 1938 are not yet available, it is anticipated that an appreciable gain will result. Odd Fellows today are doing a great fraternal work increasing the heritage handed down to them with the object of themselves handing down a greater institution.

VISITS TO DISTRICTS “During my visits to the various districts I found the majority of them progressing satisfactorily. Although some lof the lodges are in a splendid condition, others are just the reverse. In these latter lodges the officers and members have become so indifferent and uninterested in lodge affairs that they have forgotten the real value _ of Odd Fellowship. This careless and indifferent manner in running a lodge can only result in the ultimate extinction of that lodge. “The lodge has never before been confronted with conditions similar to those that confront it today,” continues the report. “The officers elected today must be capable of bringing their lodge to the highest point of efficiency. Initiative and ability are necessary qualifications for leadership and this cannot be too forcibly emphasized if progress and prosperity are to result. “I am optimistic about the effect the great changes that have been made in the world will have on our fraternal order. During the final -session of Parliament last year the Social Security Act was placed on the Statute Book and the provisions affecting friendly societies have been widely circulated by the Grand Secretary. The ultimate part societies will play in the administration of the scheme is as yet obscure, but it is apparent, however, that our health services—medical, chemist and hospital are to be superseded by the State. The societies have been allotted a part in the administration of the sick benefit provisions of the Act. Whether the Government will ultimately modify the Act in relation to universal medicine and allied services remains to be seen. Any movement which has as its object the betterment of the health of the people should receive the support of the friendly societies and co-operation was offered the Government by the Dominion Council of Friendly Societies. This preferred co-operation was not availed of as much as it might have been.” The Grand Master mentioned the support and co-operation he had received from the District Deputy Grand Masters and from the Grand Lodge executive. He specially mentioned the support given to him by the Grand Secretary, Brq. R. E. Sligo.