INCREASE IN WAGES

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 14, 7 April 1927, Page 14

INCREASE IN WAGES

LOCAL BODY WORKERS NEW AWARD ADOPTED # At a Conciliation Council • meeting yesterday a complete agreement on the form of the new local body-workers’ award was reached. The conciliation commissioner for the North Island, Mr. P. Hally, presided. The employers were represented by Mr. S. E. Wright and Mr. B. Clews appeared for the union. The new award will be along the lines of the present agreement, and will be operative for two years from May 4. The increase in wages sought was first opposed by the employers on the grounds that the present unemployment affected the position. It was ultimately agreed to give an increase of one penny. Owing to a voluntary increase of one-halfpenny being given during the currency of the present award, in view of the increased cost of living, this will mean an actual increase of one halfpenny. Mr. T. B. Clay commented, at the conclusion, on the way the commissioner had conducted the proceedings. He had been most tactful and patient and had caused a feeling of comradeship which would not have existed had he not been there. Mr. O. Mason, a union assessor, expressed the same sentiments. The kindly spirit of the* employers had been greatly appreciated. Mr. Hally said it was rarely real trouble existed around a conciliation council table.