COAL STOPPAGES

Waikato Times, Volume 126, Issue 21038, 14 February 1940, Page 9

COAL STOPPAGES

ATTITUDE OF OWNERS

TIME TO CONSIDER POSITION MINES RUNNING AT LOSS (b 7 Telegraph.—Press Association) WELLINGTON, Tuesday Interviewed with reference to the statement by the Minister of Mines regarding the stoppages at the Dobson and Wallsend mines, Mr T. O. Bishop, secretary of the New Zealand Coalmine Owners’ Association, said he thought it might be inferred that the companies were to blame. He desired to correct that impression. The dispute, which arose over the question of holiday pay in December, was referred to the National Disputes Committee, which reached a unanimous decision, but in spite of that the Dobson and Wallsend men had gone on strike, said Mr Bishop. After a fortnight’s stoppage they intimated their willingness to resume, but owing to the fact that the mines had been working at a loss the directors had taken a little time to consider ways and means before recommencing work. DOBSON TO RESUME WALLSEND NEGOTIATIONS (Special to Times) GREYMOUTH, Tuesday The Dobson Mine is to resume tomorrow after nearly three weeks' idleness, but so far there is nothing definite as* to when the Wallsend Mine will recommence. It is understood that negotiations are still proceeding between the Government and Brunner Collieries, Limited, for a resumption of production, and that a decision on the matter is likely to be made to-morrow.