THE UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 19768, 16 February 1927, Page 6

THE UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM

sir, —Since you have opened your columns to the discussion of tho above, I have been awaiting expectantly, some suggestions from those who claim to be the leaders of the so-called unemployed. "Why do not those who have constituted themselves, or have been chosen by the unemployed, as leaders, come forward with some workable suggestions to help the men to help themselves. I saw that a Mr. Kogers had telegraphed to Wellington asking the Government to do something for them. But, surely, merely telegraphing to Wellington does not exhaust all the ideas of one who wishes to be. considered a leader of men! Has Mrt Kogers, nothing else he can suggest! He may, of course, suggest that there should be a demonstration when the Duke of York is hero. But such a demonstration would be merely childish. Can wc not ask Mr. Kogers to suggest something by which the men can help themselves! lam greatly mistaken in the temper of Wanganui ratepayers if they arc prepared to help those who are unwilling to put their shoulders to the wheel and help themselves. Why, sir, you know and I know that the farmers are crying out for help to clear their lands from gorso and other noxious weeds. So that here we have work crying out for labour, a real heartrending cry, and labour complaining that it can get nothing to do! Why docs not Mr. Rogers come forward and toll us he has so many men ready to work if they can only get it—work of any kind, even if it will only provide them with enough to keep body and soul together until they can get something better! This is surely the office of a leader. Self-respect is not fostered by asking to be spoon-fed by anyone, either by Government or City Council. February 15.