SETTLERS’ PLIGHT

Waikato Times, Volume 120, Issue 20889, 22 August 1939, Page 7

SETTLERS’ PLIGHT

30,000 ACRES FLOODED APPEAL MADE TO MINISTER MATTIiR FOR CABINET DECISION (Special to Times.) PALMERSTON N., Monday Flood control matters in Manawatu were brought before the Minister ol Public Works, the Hon. R. Semple, at Shannon by a large deputation of settlers affected by the river overflowing its banks last week in the Buckley and Moutoa areas. The perilous conditions existing until some temporary repairs to the banking systems had been affected we-rp emphasised to the Minister, wno gave the settlers a sympathetic hearing. They also sought acceleration of major proposals in view for the control of the Manawatu River, and made a request for immediate financial assistance to those settlers whose homes had been invaded by flood waters. A statement was made by one speaker that many of the farmers, in the district were facing bankruptcy. Mr W. S. Carter, a member of the Manawatu-Onoua River Board, said that it was pitiable to see the settlers and their stock under the conditions that were prevailing, lie had been u resident of the district for 60 years and it was the worst visitation that lie could remember. In all some 30,000 acres were under water even at the present time, and in cases to a depth of lUl't. Major Schemes in Preparation The Minister said his department was fully aware of the dangers of the river and was busy with a major scheme. He outlined the powers lie proposed to take under legislation lie was introducing to regularise Hood control on a national basis, and said that so far no scientific attempt had been made to deal with Hie problem. As far as the present damage was concerned, said Mr Semple, as soon as he had an accurate estimate of the cost of effecting repairs lie would be able Lo give some help. In correction with the request for financial assistance, the Minister said he could make no promise. He could only spend money that had been authorised by Parliament, and in the case of a calamity such as this the Cabinet had always been generous and it would be for them to say what they would do. It would be necessary for settlers to make personal applications.