THE WORK AT PAHIATUA.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7179, 2 June 1891, Page 4

THE WORK AT PAHIATUA.

The Wellington Post writes as follows :— There seemß to be an impression abroad, to which one or two newspapers have given rise, that some of the unemployed sent by the Government to Pahiatua have left their work, through being tired of it. So far as wo can learn the idea is quite without foundation. The Government departments are only aware of one young man who has returned, and he was obliged to do so because he was seized with fever, and is now in the Hospital. Others of the party hare written to their friends in Wellington that they are satisfied with the work, though it is hard, and they appreciate the kindness shown by the Government. Altogether about ninety men are now engaged on the roads, one or two small batches having been sent up since the original party went. All their work is done by contract. The Government officers calculate the v^alue of each section of tree-felling or excavation to be done, at the rates usually paid for such work, and then offer it to a gang of men in the lump sum. Government continues to procure the necessaries of life for the men — seeing that they are unknown in the district, and co are not likely to obtain credit as yet — and will do so until the time conies for drawing their first pay.