THE LABOUR MARKET.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 10770, 16 May 1913, Page 1

THE LABOUR MARKET.

REPORT FOR APRJL. [From Orn Cokbesponuemt.] WELLINGTON, May 15

The Labour Department's official summary of local conditions shows that employment for unskilled labour during the month has been fairly plentiful. Although town work is not very general, there have been very few inquiries for farm workers, and those received have been readily filled. There is a standing order from the Public Works Department for men for Otira tunnel and batches of men have been sent at intervals to this work. A few more places remain open, but it is expected that there will be me'l enough calling to satisfy this requirement.

The number of men sent to employment during the period totals 104, fifteen married and eighty-nine single men, with thirty-one persons dependent oil them. Eighty-four were engaged *>n various public works and twenty were privately employed. BUILDING TRADES. Carpentering is somewhat quiet, and a few good men are idle. Employers think that trade will be rather quiet this winter. Bricklaying also has quietened down considerably since last month, and a good many men are idle. Stonemascnry—Business is not moving in this trade at all, and a fair number of men are out of work. Painting trade —Still good. All competent men are fully enjoyed, but there is no room for fresh hands, as the frosts being experienced just now have put a stop to a considerable amount of outside work. Plumbing is the same as lass month. All good men are fully employed, but there is a fair number of men idle. Plastering—This branch is very busy and all competent men are fully employed. A fair amount of work is in hand, being for the most part vuside work. General labourers—Conditions of employment have improved slightly, and since last report very few men ,-\re idle.