BLASTING THE RIVER.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2176, 28 April 1908, Page 2

BLASTING THE RIVER.

SUGGESTION TO RESUME OPERATIONSb

'opposition by the board

Tho question as to whether blasting operations should be continued to remove the rocks in the river was discussed by (the- Gisborne Harbor Board .yesterday, when Captain Tucker moved. ‘'That the. suggestion of the Overseer for deepening the river by saws be not adopted, but instead that the Board proceed with blasting the rocks as formerly, and that any resolution to the contrary be rescinded.” In speaking to tho motion, Captain Tucker said he merely wished to clear tho way from any opposition to blasting being re-undertaken. The resolution at present on the minute book tied the hands of the Board if it was at any time found pegessary for blasting to be undertaken. He would, not suggest that such operations lie recommenced, but it was necessary for the liberty of the Board to be restored so that members were free to take action if they thought lit. Mr. Sievwright seconded* the motion.

Messrs Harris and Matthewson opposed Captain Tucker’s motion. Mr. W. D. Lysnar said the original resolution only prohibited goner, blasting operations. Blasting Ik gone on for twelve months without any incTPijse of depth, and it would pay better to spend the money in removing silt. If that was done a boat drawing 14 feet could cbVne in at high tide. During the past year £12,000 had been spent' on the river, and if the expenditure was not kept within bounds it- would be necessary to strike another vajle., If Captain Tucker had no plait behind his motion, why did lie want the resolution to be rescinded ? Mr. Whinray suggested that the question should be discussed after the outer harbor proposals had been considered. At- the suggestion of Mr. Clark Captain Tucker withdrew his motion, and- the discussion ended.