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Q-The Commission would like to know whether these relations have suggested to you in
any way how improvement might be effected so far as the relations of the Public Works Department are concerned with the architects and engineers practising here in this Colony?
A-It is rather difficult to say off-hand now. re-modelled.
The Department should be entirely It seems to me nothing short of that will meet the case.
Q-Re-model the entire Department?
A-Yes. I consider the duties of the present Director of Public Works are such that it is impossible for any man living to do them satisfactorily.
Q-Then the Department, as at present organised, does not meet the requirements so far as the public are concerned ?
A-Certainly not.
Q-In what respects do you think it is deficient in meeting the requirements of the public?
A-Delay in getting work done, answering letters, and carrying on business. Q-You have experienced these delays ?
A-Certainly.
Q-Is that recently or not?
A-I think it has grown almost with the growth of the Colony; the more work they have to do, the more delay occurs.
Q-What is the nature of the delays ?
A-Delays in getting permits passed, and special delays lately in getting any answer to applications for land sales. I would lay special stress on that; I think the delay is monstrous.
Q-Any other matters ?
A-Special delays in getting drains-drains in connection with new houses-and getting levels of streets fixed for new buildings.
Q-With regard to the passing of plans, what is the longest delay you have experienced in that matter?
A—I cannot say.
Q-What is the average time within which plans sent in by you are passed?
A---I do not think we get anything in less than ten days.
Q-Is that a much longer time than is customary at home?
A-I cannot say.
It is a long time since I have had to do with home.
Q-From your point of view, you think ten days too long ?
A-I think it is too long.
Q-With regard to the applications for sales of land, you say there has been very long delay ?
A-Yes. I specially put some dates down.
Q-Would you kindly furnish us with them?
A-I have here an application, which first of all came from your (the Colonial Secretary's) office. After what I might call the consent for negotiations was given, I received a letter in connection with the matter from the Public Works Department
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