REEFTON GOLDFIELDS DISPUTE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 10926, 15 November 1913, Page 4

REEFTON GOLDFIELDS DISPUTE.

ARBITRATION COURT'S DECISION. [Putt PitK3s Association.} GREYMOUTH, November 15. Tho Arbitration Court's decision in tho Reofton Goldfields dispute' is for the most part based on an old award. The memorandum of award states that both parties desired various alterations of tho clause relating to the working of the hammer drills, which was redrawn, and it waa hoped this would enable work to be carried on without furthor friction. The clause as to contracting has been redrawn to mako it declaratory merely of wie company' 6 right to agree to have any work done by contractors outeide the award. There is no jurisdiction to restrict or interfere with that right. Overtime for tho first hour haa been increased to time and quarter, and double time haa been fixed for any work done on Sunday after a full ehift had been worked. A new clauso ha» been framed dealing with matters not provided for in tho award. Wages workers affected by tho award have been carefully considered, and an increase has been granted in most caeea. No distinction has been made between wages to bo paid by the New Big River Company, although the conditions of life on tho Big River field might have justified a difference being made. The Court is of opinion that the Big River Company should do something to ameliorate, the lot of tho workers on' that field by providing suitable houses for them to live in, and by arranging for prompt medical assistance when required.