BRIGHTER OUTLOOK

Timaru Herald, Volume CLVII, Issue 23215, 31 May 1945, Page 4

BRIGHTER OUTLOOK

Auckland’s Gas Supply (N.Z.P.A.) AUCKLAND, May 30. After several gloomy days when it appeared that the acute shortage of coal was going to cause a complete cessation of the Auckland gas service, prospects have brightened considerably. Bituminous coal arrived by train from Wellington to-day, and the collier Rata left Westport shortly after mid-day with coal which will be sent by rail to Auckland from New Plymouth. With these two consignments the Auckland Gas Company expects to be able to maintain a restricted service until Tuesday.

Gas 'consumers fared much better to-day than they did on Tuesday. The holders were not drawn on so heavily and the morning service was maintained without Interruption from 6 to 8.30 a.m. In the afternoon it started at 4.30 and continued for two hours. The general manager of the company, Mr R. Worley, said that it was hoped that a similar service would be available to-morrow. There would be an easing of the restrictions as soon as possible after cither the Kiwitea or Kartigi left Greymouth, but even if they cleared the bar to-morrow morning it was not likely that a full gas supply would be available until well into next week.

The gas situation was discussed at a meeting of the Old Age Pensioners' Association, when about 80 members were in attendance. One woman suggested that the Association should write to the Miners’ Union drawing attention to the parlous plight of many old people, and requesting it to guarantee a regular supply of coal in order to alleviate their distress. It was finally decided to write to the Government and management of the Gas Company drawing attention to the plight of pensioners.