CORRESPONDENCE.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXVI, Issue 17935, 31 July 1920, Page 2

CORRESPONDENCE.

WHAT IS IT COSTING? To the Editor. Sir,—Two months ago—yes, over two long, weary months, have elapsed since Dredgemaster Swann was relieved of his command of the Kaione, and the ratepayers were then bluffed, as usual, into great expectations as to what the Kaione would do if properly handled. Now, sir, any casual observer with half an eye can see that the Kaione’s decline is now more rapid than heretofore, and for this it would be interesting to know what new’ excuse the chairman has now to quieten the public. I Give honour where honour is due. [in former days we heard and read of the dredge lifting at least three loads per day of sand (not water) from the river bed; but now this total covers a week or more in the finest of weather. The press reports the dredge as deepening the berth at Castlecliff, yet all that has been done —and at what enormous cost?—is a few shovelfuls of silt removed from the basin end. No wonder your correspondent a Ratepayer” has given up in despair, when the public and press of Wanganui are so apathetic towards the progress of their port in the hands of this most progressive body. It would be also interesting to know- the cost per month in wages, coal, and upkeep of this most modern plant of ours—also the cost per yard of material removed. This, I am certain, if stated, would be a real live eyeopener to more than one outsider, and perhaps would instil more Interest in the public at large for the benefit of all concerned. Now, sir. what we really want is some fresh young blood throughout the Board, and get rid at once of all old sentiment; men who have the initiative, whose whole aim is progress, and not until this comes to pass will we ever see the river accommodating the largest class of coasting vessel and the bar clear for the Home liner.— I am. etc., ADVANCE WANGANUI.