WAGE INCREASE

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21191, 14 August 1940, Page 6

WAGE INCREASE

GRIEVANCES LIKELY POWER BOARD OPINIONS QUESTION OF STAFF PAY The likelihood of sectional grievances arising in the community as a result of the wage increase order was deplored by members of the Central Waikato Electric Power Board today. “We do not want any grounds for grievances at this time of the nation’s peril,” said Mr F. L. Onion. “This is a time for unity.” The question arose at the meeting whether the board should grant an extra 5 per cent, on wages to employees already receiving 5 per cent, or more above the award wages. Members differed in their opinions, some considering such a step would be only fair, while others considered the board should reduce expenditure to the utmost and spend no more than was vitally necessary. The matter was deferred so that the finance committee might consider the point at issue and report to the next meeting.

“It was to be noted, stated an explanation from the Auckland Provincial Employers’ Association, that the 5 per cent, increase on award wages is payable on the minimum wage and overtime and other special payments fixed by the award or industrial agreement. That is where a worker is at present receiving 5 per cent, or more in addition to the minimum wage, the payment of the cost of living bonus is unnecessary.” Cost to Power Board Mr H. J. Beeche, secretary-treas-urer, reported that the wage increase order would mean an extra annual expenditure of £1256. If members of the staff already receiving above award pay also benefited the annual increased expenditure would be £1416. “It is regrettable that during a time of the Empire’s peril,” said Mr Onion, “that one section of the community should ask for an increase in pay. Those not under awards would, in fairness, deserve an increase also and if they do not receive the bonus they wjII have a grievance. “I doubt whether Mr Nash will give the farmers a 5 per cent, addition to the guaranteed price,” added Mr Onion. Farmers have been asked to increase production even if it means doing so at a loss. This will put production back throughout the country. In reply to the chairman, Mr T. I*inton, the engineer-manager, Mr J. R. Ellis stated that it would be possible to reduce staff to save the extra wages expense but the work had to be done and it required the present staff.