ADVICE WANTED

Waipukurau Press, Volume XXVIII, Issue 127, 24 May 1932, Page 3

ADVICE WANTED

By Harbour Board FROM THE GOVERNMENT CHAIRMAN’S PROPOSAL “That the chairman be requested to approach the Government at once with a view to obtaining a report from the Government Engineer-in-Chiof, Mr F. W. Furkcrt, and an advisory marine engineer on the altered conditions following the earthquake, and advice on the policy of development to bo adapted to keep the port of Napier operating •and as to the board’s future policy of general harbour development,”

The above resolution was carried at yesterday’s meeting of the Napier Harbour Board, on the motion of the chairman, Mr T. M. Gcddis.

Mr A. E. Jull, M.P., moved as an amendment that the words relating io the future policy of the board be deleted. He considered that the present was not an opportune time for the board to be embarking on any policy that was in effect major construction. It was essential to see that the trade of the port was maintained, but to become involved in something more might prejudice the board in its efforts. No Major Scheme Proposed

The chairman (Mr T. M. Geddis): It is not intended to embark on major construction. Mr Jull: I still think that the time is not opportune to embark upon anything of a major nature. What is possibly recommended to-day may not be suitable when the opportune time doos arrive.

Mr H. R. Peacock: Are you predicting another earthquake?

Mr Jull: No, but we should not be discussing major construction during the middle of an economic earthquake. Mr P. F. Higgins: There is no suggestion of seeking to embark on a major harbour scheme. The report would not commit the board to anything. The board may not even bo guided by it. Mir L. Stephenson: What I want is the technical advice which is necessary so as to avoid the spending of any money unwisely. Mr E. J. Herrick: Our duties are, so important that we can’t do without the report. Tutaekuri Diversion. Mr J. Barker mentioned the proposed diversion of the Tutaekuri through the Westshoroi beach, which he trusted would not be of a temporary nature, but would be a benefit to the Inner Harbour for all time.

“I am sorry that the motion is not going to be carried unanimously,” said tho chairman. “All must agree that the altered conditions caused by the earthquake make necessary the fullest investigation and advice being received by the board. Any hold-up in having this investigation is not going to assist the board. Wo are handling a trade that is vital to this province and the sooner wo can lay our plans the better it will be for the district as a whole.”

Mr lull’s amendment was then put and lost, being supported by Messrs L. Harris and R. Baker. Tho chairman’s motion was then put and carried.