214
( 82 )
1056
7
Q-And when some work is not put in hand, that means you have not an over- seer ?
A-It is on account of not having sufficient staff to overtake it.
Q-What works have been kept back?
A-I think this Chair Coolies' Quarters at the Peak was one. undertaken now on account of the staff.
It is not being
Q-Was the money provided for the work in this year's estimate ?
A--Not this year.
9
Q-Then how could it be undertaken if you had not got the money for it?
1060
1
2
3
5
6
8
A-Tenders were asked for it. I believe it was left out on account of the staff.
I know in Mr. ORMSBY's time I have seen a note in his writing stating that certain work could not be undertaken on account of the staff.
Q-What is the estimate for Public Works Extraordinary for 1902 ?
A--I cannot say just now.
Q-Would you kindly look it up? ૐ
A-Yes,
Q-How long have you been in charge of Public Works Extraordinary ?
A-Since Mr. CHATHAM's going away on leave in May, 1900.
Q-Then you have practically been responsible for the Public Works Extraor- dinary in the 1901 Estimates?
A-Yes.
Q-Well, it is a large sum. Do you consider it possible for your Department, as at present constituted, to spend all the money voted for 1901 ?
A-Personally, I don't think so, with efficient supervision.
Mr. Shewan :-I don't understand the witness' reply: "It is not possible for the present staff to efficiently carry out that work."
The Chairman:--I understood that he meant that it was not possible for these works to be carried out by the Public Works Department with efficient supervi sion. That is to say, that if they were to carry them out as at present constituted, the supervision would not be efficient.
By Mr. Shewan. -You mean it is not possible, then, with the present staff?
A-Yes.
By the Chairman.-Then, taking the Estimates for 1902, what extra staff would be necessary to enable you to spend the amount estimated and to have the supervision efficient?
A-I am not prepared to answer off hand.
Q-If you are not prepared to give us an answer now, will you kindly consider the matter and let us know?
A-Yes.*
* Appendix No. 15.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.