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Q-The members of this Commission are all strongly of opinion that we should be ahead of our requirements instead of lagging behind. Do you recognise the import- ance of this?
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A-1 recognize it fully.
By Mr. Thurburn. One advantage if Taitam-tuk scheme was carried out is that it would be done quicker there than by going to the other side ?
A--Yes.
Q---And although the reservoir had not got such a holding capacity as Taitam, it would have the advantage of a running stream?
A-Yes, you get a larger yield in the low levels than in the upper levels during the dry season.
By the Chairman.-And could you give us an idea of the cost of the increase you recommend in your department ?
A- I have put down some figures here. What I have put down comes to about $30,000 a year over and above what is provided in the present year's Estimates.*
By Colonel Brown.-That is at their present rates of pay for their particu- lar rank ?
A--Precisely so, taking the salaries on the same basis as salaries of present officers.
Q-Is that rate of pay sufficient to retain the men in the service ?
A-Matters in that respect have been improved very considerably, even since the commencement of the present year, by the recent grant of additional exchange com- pensation. Formerly the salaries were very inadequate and did not induce any one to remain, consequently Assistants left to improve themselves elsewhere.
that
By the Chairman.-Is there any other information you have, Mr. CHATHAM, you think would be useful to the Commission in its enquiries?
A-There is nothing that occurs to me at present. I have given you pretty full information with regard to all subjects now.
[This concluded the evidence.]
Appendix No. 25.
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