Le monde ouvrier = The labor world, 1 septembre 1934, samedi 29 septembre 1934

20e Année — No 39 SAMEDI.29 SEPTEMBRE 1934—MONTREAL—SATURDAY.SEPTEMBER 29.1934 20th Year — No.39 TRY BLACK HORSE ALE 100 Years of Brewing Experience behind it Ci* jltmiiie r:.;y( A International (REGISTERED) f«U« Ub.l of fUVrrt in4 nI irtraim lemwnani) Lra^ct#* AntrKj MU I MOVtT^IOHE ' $ Till STOGIES “rir.ésS 1 ! /CSS STOOIF u‘“ ! L; M •IJtn’ Un Un I »¦ ti i/ iu Cut kuun «an-cxt^I* W.Union-made Cigars I «lÆÏÏSN, UV I'aka L*b*J SAMEDI.29 SEPTEMBRE 1934—MONTREAL—SATURDAY.SEPTEMBER 29, 1934 Page 3 ACTUALITES.En marge de la grève du textile américain En dépit des apparences, cette formidable grève est pratiquement réglée.Il aura fallu ou suffi, selon le point de vue, que "F.D.” se montre et approuve le rapport conciliateur cl’un gouverneur d’Etat, pour qu'à l’instant même le conflit du textile américain prenne fin et qu'environ 420,000 ouvriers des deux sexes retournent au “turbin” quotidien.Mais la bataille, hélas, n’en persiste pas moins.Non plus sous une forme officielle, mais à titre officieux, d'une manière insidieuse, entortillée, dissimulée.Elle n’en est que plus difficile à neutraliser.Car les patrons, il faut le dire, ont été généralement embêtés par l’intervention quasi subite du "plus grand des Roosevelt”.Ces messieurs se sont bien rendus, il est vrai, aux désirs du “président souriant”, mais ils n'ont cédé qu’avec “restriction mentale”.C’est ainsi, qu’en certains endroits, la filature reste encore fermée et que, par ailleurs, on se refuse à reprendre certains "meneurs”, qui, durant la grève, ont montré le plus d’activité.Cette dernière attitude étant contraire à l’entente bilatérale survenue entre le syndicat des ouvriers et celui des patrons, on se demande comment tout cela va finir.On est en présence d’un double conflit: d’amour-propre et d'intérêts.De part et d’autre, on cherche à gagner du terrain ou à n’en pas perdre.Or le statu quo étant impossible, il faut que l’un des deux cède le plus: celui qui peut et doit renoncer à une partie de son parasitisme social, c’est-à-dire le patron.Jusqu’à présent, ce dernier n’a guère considéré sa main-d’oeuvre ouvrière que comme un simple objet de troc, ignominieusement et fatalement soumis à la sempiternelle loi de l’offre et de la demande, non pas comme une collaboration à l’oeuvre humaine de la satisfaction des besoins sociaux.Le patronat se voit, cependant, dans l’impossibilité de refuser plus longtemps le caractère "humain” aux ouvriers qu’il emploie.La crise est venue le ramener à des réalités qu’il avait toujours, jusqu’à présent, considérées avec mépris ou horreur.Pour lui, l’exploitation de l’homme était et est encore une loi naturelle à laquelle on ne peut se soustraire.Le luxe et la misère sont choses également providentielles et il y aurait sacrilège, selon les patrons et leurs complices, à ne point les subir avec humilité et résignation.Mais ce point de vue traditionnel et “intéressé” est vigoureusement battu en brèche depuis quelques années.A telle enseigne que certains capitalistes rcommandent "la renonciation provisoire à tout bénéfice d’exploitation et d autres, qui 1 eut ciu, commencent à se rendre compte que tous les hommes, en somme, s équivalent, et que les hiérarchies stupides que nous subissons jurent avec “les aspirations de la conscience moderne”.Quoi qu’il en soit, cette grève du textile américain aura eu le bon effet d’amener l'intervention de l'Etat dans un conflit du travail et de prouvei.une fois de plus, qu’à l’avenir l’industrie et le commerce devront être “dirigés” ou ne pas être.Le temps n’est plus où on plaçait très haut cette "initiative piivée grâce à quoi les chevaliers d’industrie et les négociants sans scrupule ont pu éclabousser de leur faste la misère environnante.En "affaires”, l’initiative privée mène tout droit au vol quand son exercice se subordonne à 1 intérêt individuel au lieu de se vouer au bien général.Mais comme ce “vol n est encore ni prévu ni puni par nos lois caduques, il confère une ceitaine respectabilité, une honorabilité très recherchée par la pègre affairiste.Et quand on a dit d’un monsieur qu’il "vaut tant”, on Ta gratifié du plus agréable compliment qui pouvait lui être décerné.Le temps de l’individualisme outrancier est passé.L'Etat a aujourd nui le devoir d’intervenir dans tous les domaines de l’activité sociale.En attendant que les autorités compétentes épurent l’instruction que nous subissons et en fassent une chose exclusivement “humaine”, il faudra mettre un frein salutaire à certaines "initiatives privées” et les cataloguer comme contraires a 1 interet général, tout comme l’assassinat, le rapt et le viol.Il s’agit ici.bien entendu, rî’initintivps inspirées pcir le souci de lintciêt pfiiticulici.A cet égard nous devrons à la crise d’avoir ouvert-les yeux aux plus obtus A quelque chose malheur est donc bon.FLORIVAL.parmi les conservateurs sociaux.LA SECURITE ET LES FEUILLES L'état de nos routes peut être beaucoup plus dangereux dans ce temps-ci de 1 année que pendant tout autre temps.Les feuilles, la pluie et la brume que l'automne apporte sont souvent les causes de graves accidents.” , Dans une circulaire qu'elle envoie a ses membres automobilistes la Ligue de Sécurité de la Province de Québec leur rappelle qu’on dérape aussi vite en glissant sur une feuille que sur la glace.Quand la route est couverte de feuilles et que la pluie tombe, alors les conditions sont encore plus dangereuses et les chauffent s doivent redoubler de précautions.Les amateurs de vitesse doivent faire violence à leur sport favori et peser un peu moins sur l’accélérateur s'ils ne veulent pas piquer une tête dans le fossé.Ils doivent aussi diminuer la force de 1 application de leurs freins, sinon ils risquent de glisser.Pour la saison de l’automne, on t appelle à tous les automobilistes que leurs voitures doivent être en parfaite condition, les freins doivent être en bon état, les lumières aussi en excellente condition, ainsi que l'essue pare-brise, et la direction doit ètie très solide.- :o :-* LE MONOXIDE DE CARBONE "Laissez Vos portes de garage ouvertes! Tel est lavis que la Ligue de Sécurité de la Province de Québec donne aujourd hui à tous ses membres automobilistes.Pendant les froides journées de l'automne et de l’hiver, les automobilistes sont grandement tentés de travailler dans leui igarage et de laisser les portes de celui-ci fermées.Souvent, ces réparations ou ces examens de leurs voitures requièrent la mise en marche de l’engin qui produit l'échappement du monoxide de carbone.Ce gaz qui ne peut être ni senti ni vu, tue cependant sans merci.Chaque automne, un bon nombre de morts accidentelles dues au monoxide de carbone sont rapportées à la Ligue ainsi qu’aux autorités municipales et provinciales.Et pourtant il est facile de se prémunir contre ce danger en laissant tout simplement les portes de garage ouvertes.Il se peut quelquefois que le froid soit très rigoureux: qu’on revête alors un paletot, un gilet ou tout autre vêtement plutôt que de clore les portes du garage.Quand on considère que plusieurs vies peuvent être épargnées en prenant cette précaution on se demande pourquoi tant d'accidents arrivent.La Ligue demande à tous ses membres non seulement de prendre cette précaution mais aussi d'en faire profiter leur entourage.U serait encourageant de voir se passer les saisons d'automne et d'hiver sans qu’un seul accident dû au monoxide de carbone soit rapporté et.ce serait facile si tous étaient prudents.Cet avis de la Ligue de Sécurité, qui est très à point, sera suivi d’affiches et de littérature sur les dangers de ce gaz mortel qu’est le monoxide de carbone.RAJUSTEMENT SOCIAL Il s’agit de M.W.R.Campbell, président de la Ford oMtor Company of Canada qui désire que le capital prenne l'initiative du rajustement social.Il accorde le primat du salaire sur les dividendes de manière à injecter dans la base de l’économie nationale un pouvoir d'achat capable de restaurer la prospérité désirée par tous.L’intérêt de l’employé ne doit pas être subordonné à l'intérêt de l'actionnaire.Il convient en effet de rappeler que l’industrie ne supporte pas l'homme mais qu'au contraire c’est bien l'homme qui supporte l’industrie.LABOR DIRECTORY MONTREAL TKAII.es ami LA!U)K COIN-( 1L.—Meets every 1st ami 3rd Thursday of each month at Monument National, ilS2 St.Lawrence Boulevard.President, G.it.Brunet, T ^ rail.Street Bast; Corresponding Secretary, Jos.Pelletier, 7 Craig Street Bast.A I.LI LI) PRINTING Tit ABES COUNCIL — To promote the interests of the Allied Union I.ahel twhich can lie had in either the French and Bullish language;.The following organizations comprise Council; Typographical I nion, No.170; Jacques-Cartier Typographie-al Bidon, No.Hé; Printing Pressmen and Assistants’ Bnion, No.52 ; Bookbinders* l nion.No.PI; Photo Engravers’ Bnion, No.ll; Stereotypers and Electrotypers' Bnion, No.,'!:!; Amalgamated Lithographers of America, No.-7- President, Jos.Pelletier: vice-president, Walter Forrest; Itecorder, A.B.Ificard : Secretary-Treasurer, James Philip.Room 12.10,S St.James Street West.Executive: Nap.Ouimet, J .A.Bollier, John Moore.Auditors: R.II.Malin, A.Query, J.Kelly.Telephone: MArquette 7-IS'J.Oouncil meets Second Tuesday of each mouth at 7 Craig Street East.UNION TYPOGRAPHIQUE JACQUKS-CAK-TlElt No 145.— Assamblée le 1er samedi du mois, A la salle de i Bnion du Commerce, 1079, rue Berri.Président, J.E.Gnrlépy, r.O'JS Ave Pelorimier, Téléphone: CKeseent 7é:,7 ; secrétaire-trésorier, Henri Richard, 3477, rue Cartier; Téléphone: AMherst 7031.UNION DES RELIEURS, Local 91.— Assemblée tous les 1er et 3e mercredis de chaque mois, il la salle de l’union, No 7, rue Craig Est, A 8 heures du soir.Président : J.-A.Julien; secrétaire-financier et agent d’affaires, J os.Pelletier, 7, rue Craig Est, téléphone: LAncaster 272G.TYPOGRAPHICAL UNION No.170.— Meets first Saturday of each month at Union Rooms, 408 St.James St.W.William Skanea, President, 5030 Wuverly Street; James Philip, Sec ret ary-Treasurer, Room 22, 4 os St.James Street West.Business hours: 0 a.in.to 5 p.m.Saturday.U n.m.to 1 p.m.Telephone: MAr-q net to 74 S9.FRATERNITE UNIE DES PEINTRES-DECORATEURS, Local 3lî).— Assemblées tous les lundis, au No 1331, rue Sainte-Catherine Est.Président, E.Vnliquette, PJS'J Kent; vice-président, «T.Boulet, 1405 Champlain: secrétaire-crrespondant, Albert Renaud, 1131) William: secrétaire-financier, L.P.Ruisselle, 4021 Pelorimier; trésorier, R.Kobillard, 2300 Des Erables; conducteur, Art.Renaud, 387 Congrégation; gardien, J.N.Desjardins, 1745 rue St-I)enis: at rs : J.Cliartraml, 4320 Pelnroche; E.Posèves, 3825 Henri-Julien; A.Boismenu, 5124 De Gaspé.FRATERNITE UNIE DES CHARPENTIERS-MENUISIERS D’AMERIQUE, Local 134.— Président, F.Poucet, 1901), rue Cartier; vice-président, II.Trottler, 2214 rue Panet tél.FRontenac 1008: secrétaire-archiviste, Pierre Lefèvre, 5401, 12e Avenue, Rosemont: secrétaire-financier, Edouard T.nrose, 1278.ruo Beaubien tél.DOllard 3288; secrétaire-trésorier, Ernest Tlsdelle, 1310, rue Gilford.Le Local s'assemble tous les lundis soir, au Monument National, chambre 11.WOOD, WIRE A METAL LATHERS, Local 315 of Montreal.— Meetings every 2nd Wednesday at 1182 St.Lawrence Blvd.(Monument Natlonnl), room 15.Frank Iloran.Financial-Secretary.3098 Jeanne Mance Street, Telephone: HArhour 4497.FRATERNITE DES WAC.ONNIERH DK Cn EM INS DE FER D'AMERIQUE.LOGE SAINTE-MARIE No 234.— Assemblées régulières les 1er et 3e vendredis de chaque mois, dans la snlle de l’Assistance Publique, rue Lagauchetière Est.Président, L.-A.Beandry 1828,rue Déaery ; vice-président, II.Massé, COMMENT OBTENIR UNE POSITION DU GOUVERNEMENT Brochure gratuite.The M.C.C.Ltd., Toronto (10) 3870, rue Montana; secrétaire-archiviste et correspondant, C.Miron, .'•1st.7c Avenue, Rosemont; secretaire-financier, R.-B.Lamarche, 1505, Pelorimier, chambre 7; secrétaire trésorier, A.Bertrand, 23»5 Aylwin; guides: E.Petiiger et A.Asscliu ; sentinelle, H 4'Ôté; tuait re de cérémonies.Jos.Pufault ; gardien, H.Joly.Comité louai de protection J.-A.Beaudry, président, tél.FRontenac 5s*.M : G*;o.Gauthier, secrétaire.«Pis 12e Avenue Rosemont, tél.CLairva) 1314W; C.Miron, tél.AM.•'-'23; H.J.Limoges, 14*14 Desjardins, téL < 'LairvnI 7555; II.Vallluncourt.2494 Rouen, tél.FRontenac 55G0 ; R.Provost, 2089 Préfon-tainc, tél.FRontenac 1523.( IIAKPLN I ir.K.s-Mr.M'lSIKKS, Union locale No 1558, .Maisonneuve.— Assemblée tous les vendredis à 8 heures du soir au No 1 • *51.rue el.tourneux (Temple des Buffalo).Président: .1 \.Chamberlain!, 1520, rue Saint- Germain; Vice-Président : Aram.Houle, 4590, rue Lafontaine; Secrétaire Archiviste: Charles Thibault.2431, boulevard Pie IX; Secrétaire-Financier: J.B.Pelisle, 5233, rue Bordeaux; Secrétaire-Trésorier; J.-W.Corbeil, 2350, rue l.aeordaire : Conducteur: Joseph Cournoyer, 2530, rue Chambly; aGrdien: il.Léger, 2127.rue Bourbounièro.CONSEIL DE DISTRICT DES CHARPENTIERS - MENUISIERS D AMERIQUE.— Président, F.La rose; vice-president, B.Boucher; trésorier, B.Bauthier; secrétaire, Pierre Lefèvre; agents d'affaires: J.Shears et G.Houle.Les assemblées sont tenues tous les mercredis Boirs A 8 heures, au Monument National, chambre 14, tél.LAncaster 5754.BOOT AND SHOE WORKERS' UNION, No.-49.— S'assemble tous les vendredis du mois A 8 heures du soir, au No 1331, rue Ste-Catherine Est.Président, O.Drolet; secrétaire-archiviste, N.Gervals; secrétaire-correspondant, A.Roy; comité exécutif: Président, L.Thibault; secrétaire, N.Poloier; ho-crétaire-trésorieret agent d'affaires, Charte» Mckercher, 1331, rue Sainte-Catherine Ksi.Le Local s’assemble tous les vendredis et l'Exécutif tous les mercredis.UNION INTERNATIONALE DES BARBIERS COIFFEURS 1PAMLR1Q1 E, Local 455, de Montréal.— S’assemble tous les 2e et 4e lundis de chaque mois, au No 1172, boulevurd Saint-Laurent, Monument National, salie No 15.Président, H.Laeoinbe; scetviaire-arclil-viste, L.-P.Bélanger: secrétaire-trésorier ci agent d’affaires, A.Millard, 254, rue Sainte-Catherine Est.UNION INTERNATIONALE DES TAILLEURS I)E PIERRE DE MONTREAL — Assemblées tous les 2e et 4e lundis de chaque mois, A 8 heures du soir, A la salle des Cor-Mounters, 1331, rue Sainte-Catherine Est.Pré-lldcnt, A.Laurin, 7370, rue Drolet; secrétaire-torroBpondant J.-L.Longpré, 2440, rue Sainte-Catherine Est BUREAU DE PLACEMENT PROVINCIAL Sous le contrôle du Gouvernement de la Province de Québec JOSEPH AI NET, Surintendant Général FRANCIS FAYETTE, Surintendant Heures de bureau: 9 h.n.m.A 5 li.p.m.HOMMES: 1)0, rue Saint-Jacques Est PLatenu 0181 — Local 228 SECTION “COMMERCE ET BUREAU’» 95, rue Notre-Duine Est PLateaii 0181 — Local 220 HOMMES: 0552, boulevard Sidut-Laurent CResccnt 4758 FEMMES: 1444, rue Mansfield PLateau 8315 - 8317 FEMMES: 1500, rue Beaudry Cllerrier 3148 - 0045 FEMMES: 0552, boulevard Suint-Laurent DOllard 1018 Noua plaçons gratuitement les hommes, femmes et jeunes gens.Nous offrons du travail aux Journaliers et Ouvriers appartenant à tous les corps de métiers: Pans les fabrique*, les usines, les travaux de la construction on de l’agriculture.Nous offrons des pinces dnna les Hôtels, Restau rants, bonnes places pour domestiques, hommes et femmes.Ingénieurs, chauffeurs, débardeurs et terrassiers, commis et sténographes.Les propriétaires et lea agents de chantiers sont tout spécialement Invités A présenter leurs demandes nu Bureau provincial.DEMANDEZ LA BIERE POPULAIRE ASK FOR THE POPULAR B E ER M MOLSOW T Braisée à Montréal depuis 148 ANS Brewed In Montreal line* 148 YEARS ^ Pago 4 SAMEDI, 29 SEPTEMBRE 1934—MONTREAL—SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1934 Impressions post-électorales Les élections fédérales partielles dont nous venons d’être plus ou moins témoins ont affirmé, une fois de plus, la tendance anti-gouvernementale qui, telle un raz-de-marée, va bientôt ramener King au pouvoir et replacer Bennett dans l'Opposition.Celui-ci va subir le sort de Hoover en 1932, mais nous n’avons pas, hélas, de Roosevelt au Canada, pas même en miniature.Ou, s’il y en a, on ne leur a pas encore vu le bout du nez.C'est toute la différence! Jusqu’à présent, toute notre politique canadienne n’a guère été qu’une longue course à l'assiette-au-bcurre entre deux groupes électoraux que ne distinguait aucune différence essentielle.El il est à craindr qu cela continue sous le régime caduc du libéralisme économique.Nos bons voisins d’Ontario sont, comme tous les autres citoyens du Dominion, fatigués, énervés par l'inertie des autorités fédérales depuis quatre années.Ils aspirent à un changement de gouvernement à Ottawa comme ils l’ont voulu à Toronto.Les bleus qui régnent en maîtres au pays auraient tort de croire que l’électorat est aujourd’hui moins ’’conservateur” qu’hier.Et les libéraux se fichent joliment le doigt dans l’oeil s’ils croient que le Canada revient au libéralisme.En réalité, l’électeur ne sait où donner du vote.L’électorat, en général, est inquiet, impatient et malheureux en proportion.La crise lui a montré, entre autres choses, que nos politiciens, pris en groupe ou séparément, sont des impuissants au point de vue social, mais il n’a pas l’embarras du choix et son ‘‘inéducation” le porte à subir des gouvernants dont l’étroitesse d’esprit et de jugement en toutes choses explique en partie le prolongement de la crise économique au Canada.Et l’an prochain, quand les rouges auront pris la place des bleus, on ne manquera pas d’observer que ‘‘plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose”.Les libéraux, gonflés par ries succès récents, affirment que les Canadiens reviennent au libéralisme politique.Les bleus, sentant leur mort politique prochaine, disent, eux, que le pays demeure conservateur, mais qu’il est actuellement dans un état mental anormal qui le fait vouloir “changer” à tout prix de gouvernement, ce en quoi ils n’ont pas tout à fait tort.En définitive, le peuple est harassé, découragé et veut changer de gouvernement dans l’espoir que sa situation ou plutôt sa sécurité économique devienne un fait plus palpable, plus tangible.Illusion, sans doute.Il importe peu, en somme, que ce soit King ou Bennett ou Woodsworth qui nous dirige, voire même tous les trois ensemble, ce qui serait peut-être la meilleure des combinaisons à l’heure actuelle.Ce qui compte est comptera, et seulement cela, c'est la nature des dispositions, légales et autres, qui seront dorénavant prises pour que l’économie du pays soit dirigée dans l’intérêt de tout le monde et non plus seulement, comme jusqu’à présent, au bénéfice de quelques cliques de tripoteurs insatiables et amoraux.Si, à Ottawa, on manque d’initiative pour doter le pays d’un régime économique sain, c’est-à-dire reconnaissant à tous les citoyens du Canada le droit de vivre sans être constamment empoisonnés par le souci du lendemain, qu’on “expérimente” tout au moins pour améliorer graduellement le sort de notre population si profondément affligée depuis quelque temps.Mais qu’on fasse quelque chose, ne fut-ce que pour prévenir un désordre encore plus grand que celui dont nous sommes présentement victimes.Les discours, si brillants soient-ils, ne sont plus de mise aujourd’hui.Et si, par ailleurs, le gouverne- ment qui succédera sans doute à celui de Bennett n’est compose que d hommes ayant "intérêt” à demeurer dans un pénible statu quo économiquqe, cela vaut-il la peine de changer?Les étiquettes politiques n’ont plus guère de sens aujourd'hui.Les événements de ces dernières années ont tellement bouleversé nos notions politiques et économiques qu'il nous faut orienter différemment notre conception d’une société organisée de façon normale.Les préjugés ont la vie dure, certes, mais le moment est venu d'en faire table rase et d'élaborer, par une intelligente coopération de toutes les bonnes volontés, une société humaine où chacun pourra vivre en paix sans être à chaque instant sous l’impression d'être cambriolé par le voisin d’à côté ou d’en face.LEGLANEUR.LE CITADIN COLON Le choix des colons est difficile, affir-vornl des pen« oui n’ont jamai mis le pied dans une paroisse nouvelle: d'autres prétendent qu’il est des plus faciles: il n'y aurait qu'à choisir cîes fils de cultivateurs qui ne sont jamais venus en ville Il est des fils de cultivateurs qui peuvent faire de bons défricheurs.On ne saurait, dit-il.trouver un meilleur pays.Lui non plus ne viendrait plus rester à Montréal, tellement il est satisfait de son sort à Laferté.C’était pourtant un homme de la ville! J.-E.LAFORCE GARE AUX BARILS VIDES ! Il en est d'autres qui préfèrent la ville .Et parmi les gens de la ville il s’en trouve, et plus qu’on ne le croit généralement, qui ne réussissent pas trop mal sur une terre nouvelle.Exemples: M.Labrèchc.charretier à Montréal, fils et petits-fils de charretier .parti avec 10 enfants pour aller s'établir sur une terre nouvelle à Val Gagné, lai l’Abitibi ontarien, qui possède un bel établissement agricole, et six de scs garçons qui sont établis sur de belles fermes : M.Vitalien Villeneuve, en charge du placement des Retours à la Terre, en Abitibi, qui a établi sa famille à Villemontel et gagnait quelques années plus tard la médaille d umérite agricole: M.Damase Bégin.un autre médaillé du mérite agricole .ancien marchand, établi à Palmarolle, -r.Abitibi: M.Scauer Wheeler, qui tant d foi- remporta le championnat mondial pour le blé.l’orge, l’avoine, et divers autres grains et légumineuses et des douzaines d'autres que nous pourrions nommer.Et cet autre encore, M.Louis Dion, ancien conducteur du Canadien National, citadin de Montréal, choisi pat la Commission du Chômage d'- Montréal, l’an dernier, comme colon du Retour a la Terre.Parti en décembre, par un froid de 30 à 50 sous zéro, il s'est bâti une bonne maisonnette sur le lot choisi, à Laferté.près du lac Lois.Revenu à Montréal pour assister au mariage de l’une de ses filles.M.Dion se déclare enchanté de son établissement dans son pays nouveau.Il a déjà un beau défriché et il s’est fait un grand jardin au printemps.Les officiers de la Ligue de Sécurité de la Province de Québec, après avoir pris connaissance des faits entourant quelques accidents récents causés par l’explosion de barils abandonnés ayant déjà contenu de la gazoline.demandent aux compagnies employant de la gazoline et aussi aux ménagères de bien vouloir déposer leurs barils vides ailleurs que dans les terrains vagues ou les ruelles.Dans ces barils qui paraissent vides, il reste quelquefois assez de liquide adhérant aux parois intérieures pour provoquer une explosion si une personne imprudente on un enfant a le malheur d'allumer une allumette à proximité dé l'embouchure.Le mois dernier, deux accidents de ce genre sont survenus à des enfants qui allumèrent des allumettes près de vieux barils de gazoline vides.Dans les deux cas.l'enfant, qui ignorait le danger de cette pratique, fut grièvement brûlé.La Ligue enverra une circulaire à tous ses membres leur demandant de disposer de leurs vieux réceptacles d’une autre façon.afin d'éviter des accidents qui peuvent tout aussi bien arriver aux adultes qu'aux enfants.- ; O :- LA SECURITE DES ECOLIERS Depuis le commencement des classes, la Ligue de Sécurité de la Province de Québec a reçu nombre de plaintes contre 'es pratiques des écoliers dans la rue.Un des plaignants écrit que le plaisir de quelques-uns semble être le suivant: un groupe d'enfants se tient dans la rue surveillant l'arrivée d'une voiture.Quand VIDEE EN MARCHE.Coopération ou révolution?“Il (l'àpre individualisme) peut avoir été à sa place — et l'a probablement été — parmi le monde d'hier, en plein développement, mais tous ceux d’entre vous qui ont regardé en face le chaos d’aujourd’hui doivent sentir qu’en ce monde modernise il ne saurait être permis à quiconque de poursuivre sa voie individuelle et d'amasser une fortune, non moins individuelle, comme s'il vivait dans un monde à lui.Et ce qui est vrai pour les individus est vrai pour les industries et les nations." Révérend Norman L.RAWSON.L'autre jour, à Winnipeg, M.Campbell, gérant général de la "Ford Motor Company”, recommandait à ses collègues capitalistes de “prendre la tête” du mouvement de renaissance économique au Canada et de “renoncer”, pendant la crise, à leurs' “bénéfices” d’exploitation.Ces jours-ci, à Halifax, le révérend Rawson, d’Ottawa, exposait au congrès annuel des "Kiwanians” ses vues à propos d’un mieux-être économique possible.Il débutait en rappelant aux dirigeants de la société qu’à notre époque h faut choisir entre “la coopération et la révolution”.Il faut, selon lui.divorcer de l’esprit public l’antique théorie d’après laquelle “le butin appartient au vainqueur”.Il faut vivre, par conséquent, plus dans le présent et l’avenir que dans le passé.L’excellent pasteur d’âmes en est ainsi arrivé à douter, sinon à nier, que la concurrence soit la vie même du commerce et que l’âpre individualisme, cher aux Hoover et à tous les ploutocrates de l’univers, est désormais chose du passé; que c’est une théorie dont l’application est devenue dangereuse parce qu surannée et inhumaine.Il demande aux “chefs” d’aujourd’hui, non plus de se borner aux intérêts d’un comité, d’un parti ou d’une foule déchaînée, mais de rechercher, dans un sens large et objectif, ce dont la société a besoin pour ne pas mourir d’inanition économique et de diriger la société dans ce sens en dépit de tous les obstacles possibles et imaginables.M.Rawson va même un peu plus loin.Il affirme que cette autre “croyance”, selon laquelle l’appât du gain, “le gain matériel” lui-même, a toujours été envisagé comme le but suprême de tout effort, le mobile sans lequel la terre cesserait de se mouvoir, cette croyance séculaire, eh bien, l’heure de son crépuscule a sonné, “c’en est fait d’elle”! L’orateur se serait, comme il l’a dit, volontiers étendu sur un tel sujet, mais il s’en dispense et en prive malheureusement ses 500 auditeurs parce que, suivant sa propre expression, ledit sujet serait “chargé de dynamite”.On peut supposer, nous, que les nombreux “hommes d’affaires” qui l’écoutaient eurent été quelque peu scandalisés d'entendre un membre du clergé canadien adresser des paroles irrespectueuses à l’égard de l’idole Profit sur l’autel de laquelle nos affairistes s’inspirent pour perpétrer les méfaits dont s’honore la chevalerie industrielle et commerciale de ce siècle.Il eut aussi des reproches à peine voilés à l’adresse des politiciens qui, parvenus au pouvoir,, privent de leur emploi un tas d’excellents fonctionnaires dont tout le tort consiste à avoir été placés par le “régime sortant”.Il dit même ou laisse entendre que c’est là une façon plutôt pitoyable d’envisager le concept démocratique.Ceci dit dans un milieu de politiciens eut certes fait l’effet d’un caillou tombant sans crier gare dans la mare aux grenouilles, car c’est la pure vérité.Ces déplacements arbitraires sont, en effet, du plus vil arbitraire, de la cuisine post-électorale inqualifiable.Il fallait que ces choses-là soient dites., Il conviendrait même qu’elles soient souvent répétées, surtout devant les auteurs de cette politique de bas étage dont la pratique n’a pas peu contribué, il faut oser le dire, à discréditer la démocratie dans toutes les parties du monde.Le temps est venu, semble-t-il, où les parties constitutives de cette soi-disant élite qui nous dirige — politique, économique et autre — coopèrent à l’unisson pour sauver la société en dérive et apportent des solutions “humaines” aux problèmes qui se posent aujourd’hui.Ou bien cette coopération doit s’effectuer ou alors c’est la révolution à brève échéance, une révolution auprès de laquelle les précédentes n’auront été que des jeux d’enfants.Comme le dit fort justement le révérend Rawson, il va bientôt falloir choisir entre ces deux alternatives: coopération ou révolution.Georges Delpèque.celle-ci apparait.le groupe se divise en deux, et les membres de l’un cherchent à précipiter les membres de l’autre dans le chemin de l'automobile.Le même plaignant ajoute qu’il est temps plus que jamai': de demander aux maîtres d’écoles, par une lettre circulaire, de faire l’éducation “.sécuritaire" dès enfants et de les empêcher de jouer un tel jeu dans la rue.D’autres plaintes mentionnent la non moins dangereuse habitude qu’ont certains enfants de quêter des tours pour l’aller et le retour de l’école.Cette pratique est dangereuse car elle demande l’arrêt complet et soudain des autos dans le milieu de la chaussée ou du chemin.La Ligue fera, sous peu, parvenir une lettre aux maitres d’écoles, leur deman- .dam de dire aux enfants de ne pas jouer dans la rue, et de leur démontrer le danger qu’il y a de demander des passages.La Ligue demandera en plus à ses membre:- automobilistes de ne pas arrêter pour accéder aux demandes de quelques écoliers.Pour vos impressions Lorsque vous avez besoin cle travaux d’imprimerie, appelez LAncaster 5361 Nous garantissons satisfaction sous tous rapports, main-d’oeuvre et promptitude.Notre atelier est de l’union et travaille 44 heures.M ercantile Printing 11, rue Saint-Paul Ouest MONTREAL l SAMEDI, 29 SEPTEMBRE 1934—MONTREAL—SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1934 Page 5 What Will Be The Future ?By WILLIAM GREEN President, American Federation of Labor.Political Activity This year finds our country midway in perhaps the most important economic undertakings of our existence — a realignment of forces of industrial control under federal supervision.It is a time when we are making decisions which will determine this issue: Shall we plan for future production of abundance for all, or shall we try to curb mass production into scarcity channels with luxury for the few and poverty for the many?The technical information handed on to us by past generations and inventive power of present day workers have completely revolutionized work.The work limit is no longer human endurance but the installation of machines, organization of work force and orders.Orders for products and services depend upon incomes or buyers.Over 80 per cent of the buyers in retail markets are wage earners and small salaried persons.This is the reason why prices correspond to the rise and fall in pay envelopes.Many of our economic troubles have grown out of failure to see that electric power production heralded a new age — the age of plenty for all.In the days of handicraft and production limited by human endurance, we could not produce enough or at such low prices as to make possible comfort standards of living for all.There were well-to-do people and a few wealthy.The million dollar yearly incomes came with power production.From 1923 to 1929, each individual worker increased the amount he turned out each hour 4 per cent every year.During the past depression (1929-1934) the increase in hourly output has been slightly more than 4 per cent per year.In this period of rapid increase in productivity, the incomes going to owners of property increased G6 per cent — over two-thirds.The incomes of factory employees — those who did the actual work in turning out the increased product rose 5 per cent.During the depression years while output still increased per man hour, factory incomes declined 58 per cent (1929-1932) while the incomes of those owning property fell 30 per cent.Why this difference?Because the rules of distribution were made at a time when the producer owned what he made, and have not been brought up to date to provide equitably for the producer who is hired to work for a management that sells the product and determines what part shall be paid the worker-producer.Because workers have not shared proportionately in their increased productivity, buying power in the retail markets has not been adequate to sustain the large amounts which owners of capital have invested.Even in peak years no industry operated at capacity.This means producing investments had to pay for idle investments.In an economic structure built on specialization and inter-relation, inequities in distribution of incomes brings unbalance in production and distribution of products and services that wrecks the whole structure This unbalance was one of the basic causes of the collapse of 1929.Too much of our national income had gone into speculation in securities on the Stock Exchange and speculative investments generally, and not enough into the pockets of those who bought the output of industries.Two things arc needed: To increase the amount of national income going into wages and small salaries so as to maintain a balance between production and consumption that will use products and services for higher standards of living; and legal and economic institutions that recognize and protect the interests of producing workers equally with the interests of the owners of these products and other property.To accomplish these two purposes organization of wage earners in independent Unions is essential for the promotion am protection of wage earners’ interests.In the present age under the National Recovety Act as well as in all other periods, the union is the beginning and continuing agency indispensable for wage earners progress.It is most fitting then that plans be made for the promotion and extension of the trade union movement.Although the figures for Canada are not available, the continuity of industrial oi-ganization from the Mexican border northward, makes the principles equally applicable.During the past four years United States industries have set up approximately 200 branches' in Canada.Canadians have an established habit of investing generously in United States undertakings.The workers of the two countries have long known they must unite in establishing standards when employers readily set up branches on either side of the boundary.May every union and every central labor body in the United States and Canada find in the day new inspiration for work and new plans to be executed.When every wage earner is a union member, disciplined in working together with fellow workers in making effective the principles of the union movement and accustomed to work as a soldier in the ranks of Labor, then our national labor movement will be able to negotiate work agreements that fully protect the interest of those who work for wages and to assure public institutions that will safeguard Labor’s rights.I urge all unions and all Labor to work towards the advancement of these purposes, by planning union-forward campaigns.WAR-TIME DISTRIBUTION OF WORKERS IS REVIVED During the World War the Government applied an extensive interstate system for what was called the “clearance of labor,’ so that skilled workers were shifted from one part of the United States to another to meet the needs of both the Government and private employers.According to an announcement by the New York State Employment Service and the National Re-employment Service, this labor clearance system is again functioning under the provisions of the Wagner-Peyser Act.The statement issued by these two services in New York City said: “Just as Congress organized the United States Employment Service in 1917 as a war-time measure, so did it revitalize the service in 1933 through the Wagner-Peyser Act to spread re-employment.“In order to facilitate the placement of unemployed workers, the United States Employment Service organized the National Re-employment Service to supplement existing State employment offices.Where only 125 public employment offices were operating in twenty-four States on July 1, 1933.now more than 2,000 exist throughout the nation.“These National Re-employment Service offices are closely integrated with existing State employment services, as well as with each other, regardless of State boundary lines.One of the most important connecting links is the system of intra and interstate clearance of job vacancies."By such a system in New York State, the facilities of the twelve State Employment Service offices and the fifty-two National Re-employment Service offices are'as much at the disposal of employers in need of workers in Pennsylvania as they are to employers in the State of New York.” As illustrations of the efficiency of the system, the statement explained that the clearance office in New York State recently had referred applicants for positions to inquiring manufacturers in Pennsylvania, the West Indies, Louisiana, California, New Jersey and Connecticut.— American Federation of Labor Weekly News Service.NEW YORK MAYOR HITS BANK INTEREST RACKET New York.— Mayor LaGuardia squelched the scheme of a syndicate of 73 New banks, headed by the Chase National, to extort a high interest from the city in the sale of S72.000.000 in securities by rejecting bids for all but $2.000.000 of the issue on the ground that interest rates were unfair In the days of the Hanna regime on the Canadian National Railways, there was issued an order which debarred employees on that property from participation in active politics.This created a tremendous storm throughout Canada and several meetings were held with management in an effort to have the order withdrawn.After a change in management the order was withdrawn and a new resolution passed by the Board of Directors which allowed an employee leave of absence to conduct his election, but if elected he must take leave of absence during the entire term of the office to which he was elected.Several employees ran for office under these regulations, and were notified of the existing terms.There has not been a case for grievance presented to the General Chairman until upon the completion of the recent elections in Ontario, a conductor on the Canadian National was elected from the Fort Francis District and was immediately taken out of service for the life of the Hepburn Government.Upon receipt of his protest to his organization a meeting was held in Montreal between a representative group of Genera! Chairmen and the Board of Trustees, which resulted in the following letter from the President of the Canadian National: "This will acknowledge your letter of July 3lst, confirming the views put forward at a meeting of the same date with respect to the existing regulations affecting leave of absence for employees nominated for.or elected to Provincial Legislatures or Dominion Parliament.In consideration of the representations made by the General Chairmen of the organizations in the group which you represent, the management has decided to accede to the request that employées so elected shall be permitted to resume duty between sessions, and the regulations are therefore being amended, as follows: “Upon application being made on behalf of an employee who has been invited to accept political nomination in Federal or Provincial elections, such employee shall be granted leave of absence, without pay, for whatever time is necessary for reasonable electioneering purposes, which shall include the period of time involved in final returns being made.If elected, leave of absence, without pay.shall be given for the period of each session and the employee shall be allowed to resume regular work with the railway, between sessions.During periods of employment between sessions.the employee shall be subject to the general rules of the company with respect to leave of absence.” The situation is now the same on each of the large roads, and grants to employees the same political rights as other citizens enjoy.Both Mayor LaGuardia and Controller Joseph McColdrick vehemently condemned the terms offered by the syndicate, which submitted the only bids for the entire issue.It was confidently expected by city officials that the bids would have put an interest rate of slightly below 4 per cent on the first long-term security issue it has attempted to float since 1931.When the bids were opened, however, it was found that the lowest interest rate of the three offered by the syndicate was approximately 4.036.Tire Mayor flatly charged that the banks had “ganged” together to exact money from the city.He warned that the banks would receive one more chance to submit bids that he and the members of his administration consider fair.UNIONS NECESSARY TO COMBAT INJUSTICE The following editorial is taken from the Catholic Record, and we deem it worthy of repetition: "The principle of labor unionism has long been advocated by church bodies.The history of industry points to the fact that labor cannot hope to maintain its standards against strongly organized aggregations of capital and employers unless labor is also organized in equally strong unions of its own.“In the interest of social justice and democratic progress, it is, therefore, to be hoped that the present effort on the part of labor in the textile industry will result in the thorough organization of the industry, and that the employers will not fail to grant recognition to organized labor in the spirit and intent of Section 7 (at of the National Industrial Recovery Act and of Resolution 44, dealing with collective bargaining, passed by the last session of Congress."An Ottawa despatch, reviewing industrial labor conditions in Canada during the past year, says that the outcome of the textile strike will have an important bearing upon the Canadian labor situation.It is true that "the measure of recovery has been almost the measure of labor disturbance," but that does not disprove the fact that, as history proves, the strike method is the most expensive way.in the vast majority of eases, to settle differences between capital and labor."Though under certain circumstances a strike or a lockout may be defensible as a defence measure, like war it involves fault on one side or the other and should not be invoked until after every effort has been made at just and peaceful conciliation through arbitration.It is far from reassuring to learn that both parties to the textile strike do not welcome the effort at mediation of the board appointed by President Roosevelt.In this period of readjustment following the economic and financial difficulties of the depression, both employers and employees should be more solicitous than ever for each other’s interest.Recovery can result only from mutual understanding and good will.This is the time for organized capital and organized labor to consult upon the problems of industry in Canada and.with governmental assistance, seek to prevent the interruption of labor and production.Industrial war shows no advantage over any other kind." 40-HOUR WORK WEEK IS URGED FOR ITALY Rome.Italy, Sept.20.— Introduction of a 40-hour week in industry as an unemployment relief measure was approved, in principle, by officials of the Confederation of Labor last night.They represented employers and employees.The measure needs approval of the Ministry of Corporation for enforcement.It is provisional in character, as an unemployment measure.When will the same measure be adopted in the Province oi Quebec?J L »* UNI ON MADË SOLD AND GUARANTEED BY LEADING MERCHANTS EVERYWHERE.rr.v.frtjf It'-SSvNÿ Page b SAMEDI.29 SEPTEMBRE 1934—MONTREAL—SATURDAY.SEPTEMBER 29.1934 The Pamphlet as an Educational Agency Liberty in the Modem World Threatened by Dictatorship.— Democracy the Safest and Sanest Form of Government.By BERNARD ROSE.With the purpose of enlightening men as to principles and policies of parties, groups, and movements, we are reverting to the practice that prevailed several decades ago, of expressing views in the form of pamphlets.The average man, in this hurried age, does not care to devote the time necessary to go through a learned treatise or book containing several hundred pages.He prefers to get his information in more or less tabloid form.Getting information contained in a well written pamphlet, gives him the facts equally as well, as he can abstract them from a volume which is an expansion or discussion of the principles which constitute the basis of the matter in a pamphlet.At the beginning of the last century, the pamphleteer both in France, Great Britain, and the United States, was an individual who exercised a great deal of influence.He wrote mo matter'what course he espoused,) trenchantly and by no means infrequently, with a pen that was dipped in vitriol.He roused passions as well as appealed to prejudices.Today, the tendency, on the part of the broad minded pamphleteer, is to appeal to reason.The various official organs of the international trade unions are in the nature of pamphlets, since, (although the contents are made up of articles,) the purpose is to point out to the reader the trend of events and the advantage of trade union organization and the necessity for social and economic reform.Whatever influence these official mouthpieces for the different labor organizations have, is largely due to the nature and style of the matter they contain.It will be admitted by even the most devout upholder of long established institutions, that there is a questioning spirit abroad in the world today.Men and women arc not satisfied with conditions.They believe that the world can be made one which will make life worth the living, from the economic, social, and aesthetic standpoints.In almost every country that has an industrial population, the workers meet together to discuss men, events, and the right of the individual to a full measure of liberty both in speech and conduct, in order that lie secure that share of the world's wealth, to which he is entitled because of his ability, education, or contribution that he makes to society’s welfare as a producer or public servant.It has been noted that there has been an unfortunate reaction away from that liberality of mind and thought, that provided the basis for the democracy, which has enabled the workers to become a power politically, as well as industrially.In countries with a representative form of government, and where adults reaching the age of majority have the right to cast their votes for the candidates of the several parties that seek to obtain power, an organized group can undoubtedly influence the action and policy of individuals and parties.Parliaments and legislatures, elected by citizens having the right to vote, must at all times be appreciative and responsive to the wishes and demands of the groups that constitute a considerable percentage of the population.What is however fundamental, is that the workers in countries with parliamentary institutions be very jealous of the privileges they enjoy and the rights they can exercise as citizens entitled to political liberty.Discussing "Liberalism in the Modern World,” the Marquis of Lothian does not hesitate to speak his mind with the fullest frankness.In his opinion: ^ ‘‘Dictatorships are no more successful in preventing war or ending unemployment or restoring prosperity than are the democracies: rather the reverse.The principles of liberty are not wrong or out of date.They are still the best foundation for society and for progress." It has been demonstrated that the dictatorship, whether it be Communist, Fascist, or Nazist, deprives the worker and citizen of his liberty, on the alleged ground that in losing or having his liberty of speech and action abridged, he will gain a corresponding economic and social advantage.Certain groups of workers, dissatisfied with conditions, believe even in countries with parliamentary institutions, that destroying capitalism will bring with it a decided improvement in the lot of the worker.They advocate the suppression of individual liberty, the expropriation, or confiscation of property, in the hope that the masses will enjoy a greater measure of economic satisfaction than they can where democratic institutions prevail.The worker in Russia, harangued as he is by the convinced communist, and reading nothing but literature that is written and censored by the directing head of the communist autocracy, can hardly be expected to understand or appreciate the advantages of democracy.He believes that parliamentary institutions and the right of the worker to vote for, as well as become a candidate and hold important office, is no longer desirable.The dictators exercising the power they do, in the name of the proletariat, do their utmost to generate a state of mind that fails to see the slightest good in the political, social, and economic institutions in democratic countries.The same applies to Italy, and what has happened in Germany to the workers’ movements .proves beyond any doubt, that the Nazi form of dictatorship is even worse than the Russian and the Italian.In the three countries, the dictators have complete control of the agencies of publicity.They are thus able to mould opinion and carry on a propaganda that is not only aggressive, but entirely one-sided.Opposition to the views expressed is regarded as treason to the state, and those who dissent from the views which are official, utter such dissent at the risk of their lives and whatever little liberty they possess.Dictatorships are opposed to everything that is democratic and libertarian.The very essence of a dictatorship is a denial of the right of the individual or any number of individuals, to take exception to what the dictator commands or requests.From the worker’s standpoint, dictatorship should be anathema.He should, under no circumstances, tolerate any attempt to impose it upon the masses.No matter what defects he may allege against democracy; no matter what the degree of exploitation to which he is subjected because of capitalists owning resources or machines; no matter how politicians in office may abuse the trust reposed in them, he has in his own hands and keeping, the means whereby he can bring about drastic changes, without in any way undermining the institutions that give him that liberty which he should prize very dearly.No intelligent workman will take exception to the views expressed by the Marquis of Lothian, that: "The principles of liberty are not wrong or out of date”.and "still the best foundation for society and for progress.” That we have made progress, not even the most confirmed Communist, Nazist, or Fascist can deny.He may argue that we have not benefited as we deserve from progress, but that is no reason for repudiating the principles of liberty.Rather he should seek to have these principles applied in a manner that will enable the citizen to derive from progress the benefit that he should get.While capitalism is charged with sins of omission and commission, it*s nevertheless a development due to progress.To define it, is rather difficult, even though the dictionary attempts to provide a definition.Capitalism, as we understand it.is the ownership by one or more individuals or corporate bodies, of the means of production and distribution.It also includes banking and control of currency, where this last is not a state function.But even capitalism cannot, mo matter how powerful its supporters may be,) entirely disregard the wishes of the people and the laws which their representatives in the Legislature or Parliament enact.If capitalism has enabled selfish groups or individuals to take advantage of the worker's helplessness, it can be subjected to control and made to function in the interests of the majority, rather than the few.Its defects are those that are also defects of a democracy.We know that the candidate seeking political honors occasionally forgets that he merely holds a mandate which he must return to his electors at stated intervals and that failure to carry out his mandate in the interests of his constituents will result in his defeat and being relegated to oblivion.No matter what the defects of capitalism and democracy may be, (and that there are defects in both no one will deny.) it is socially dangerous for the workers to permit themselves to become the instruments of autocrats and despots, who, in the guise of national saviours, make promises which it is utterly impossible for them to keep, and which in any event, they had no intention of keeping, since their purpose was to secure power, and with the aid of such police and military forces that are available, not only dictate to the workers, but subjugate them so completely, that their state becomes that of the serf of the middle ages and the slave in the days of Greece and Rome.The workers must, under no circumstances .allow their unions or cooperative bodies to come under the control of individuals or groups that ostensibly friendly to the workers, aim to obtain possession of their organizations and resources.This is what took place in Germany, and the splendid cooperative and trade union movements, built up by the efforts and years of self sacrifice on the part of German co-operators and labor leaders, are now non existent.All the labors of these sincere workers are thus in vain.Pamphlets or brochures that discuss in lucid and convincing language, social, economic, and political questions from the democratic standpoint, are an excellent educational means to enlighten not only the workers, but the middle classes, and those who belong to the professions.The writing and circulating of pamphlets of this nature should in every way be encouraged by the workers and all who are opposed to any unnecessary or undue abridgement of the liberty of the individual.Satisfaction in Work Labor is a blessing of outstanding significance and magnitude.Work has a pleasure value of much worth, as is illustrated by the fact that children like best the toys that call not for mere observation but for self-activity.Work, and work alone, can give continuing pleasure day after day.We soon grow weary of play, find the delights of the senses short-lived, and discover that vacationing brings contentment only for a while.Nothing but work provides lasting satisfaction.—Selected.Les membres des unions ouvrières sont tous intéressés à connaître la Loi relative à Textension des conventions collectives de Travail Les unions ouvrières peuvent s’en procurer des copies I’ranaises et anglaises en livret à raison de 20 copies pour 81.00, plus les frais postaux, ou 5 cents la copie prise à nos bureaux LE MONDE OUVRIER, 11 rue Saint-Paul Ouest MONTREAL Every Union Man Should Get Acquainted with this New Legislation An Act respecting the Extension of Collective Labor Agreements Labor unions can secure copies of same, in English and French, in booklet I'mm, at the nominal prim* of 20 copies for $1.00 plus postal cost, or 5 cents per copy in calling at the office of THE LABOR WORLD, 11 St.Paul Street West MONTREAL SAMEDI, 29 SEPTEMBRE 1934—MONTREAL—SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1934 Page 7 Wages and Dividends Some Striking Figures.By BERNARD ROSE.It seems somewhat singular that prominent labor leaders fail to utilize the information which occasionally is furnished through the medium of the press.A local afternoon newspaper, in its issue of July 10th, gave its readers information, which would certainly justify the asking of questions by the workers and their leaders, and the carrying on of an active and aggressive campaign in favor of wage adjustments, particularly in an upward direction.The information furnished is to the effect that dividend payments, in June, by Canadian corporations to their stockholders, established a new high record for June, and the total of over forty-one million dollars was the second highest on record in the Dominion, being exceeded only by December, 1930, when the total was above fifty million dollars.Yet, a contemporary, in its issue of June 30th, advises its readers that, in the city of Montreal, more than a hundred and fifty thousand were still dependent upon relief.The almost daily revelations of the scandalously low wages paid to thousands of employees skilled and unskilled, in this and other provinces, demonstrates that workers are being denied the right to a living wage and deprived of a fair share of that wealth which they help to create, as judged by the enormous sum paid in dividends, in the month of June of the present year.We must not forget that the sum of forty-one million dollars in dividends is paid to companies doing business in a country with a population of barely over ten millions.This large amount in dividends proves that workers in certain industries have been mercilessly exploited.The item from which these these figures are taken states further: “Many factors contributed to the record disbursements for the month of June.Improvement in general conditions has enabled many payments of dividends, other to increase disbursements to their stockholders.” It does not say, however, that the improvement in general conditions made possible the payment of fair wages and salaries to the employees, without whose services, dividends could not have been paid.The figures are certainly a comment on the cupidity as well as the stupidity of the heads of the concerns, that are in a position to take advantage of their workers by paying them low wages, in order to increase dividends, bringing them up to the total above given.The depression was already in effect in December, 1930, yet, the amount paid in dividends in that month was fifty million dollars.Again one asks, why part of this fifty million dollars representing practically five dollars for every head of the population in this country, Was not given to the underpaid workers! It is becoming evident that a certain type of employer will not, of his own volition, show his appreciation of the services rendered by his employees by giving them a fair wage — not to speak of a share in the tremendous profits made in the carrying on of certain industries and enterprises.The directors of the concerns making these huge profits are in receipt of very large salaries, to which bonuses are occasionally added.They seldom think of the plight of their employees, compelled to live upon a sum wholly insufficient to purchase what they require.These employers believe that the business they conduct was organized solely to make profits for their shareholders and pay exorbitant salaries to the executives.One can quite appreciate what a tremendous difference it would make to the well being of the workers, and the prosperity of this country, if one-half of the sum of forty-one million dollars was distributed in the form of higher wages and salaries to the gainfully employed workers in the Dominion.With twenty million, five hundred thousand dollars, spent in making purchases, Instead of going into the purchase of bonds, securities, or additional capital equipment, work would be found for hundreds of thousands, and a stimulus given to the two principal industries in the Dominion — transportation and construction.One need not be radical to point out the unfairness of such large amounts being paid in dividends to an exceedingly small percentage of the population.While it is true that a considerable percentage of the amount paid in dividends came from gold mines, the fact remains that it went into the pockets of those who hold stock in these mines, the majority of whom are certainly not workers.In December, 1930.the amount paid in dividends by mining companies did not approximate to the sum received by mining shareholders in tire month of June of this year.Hence, the largest part of the fifty million dollars in December, 1930, was paid out by industrial and other commercial corporations.Whether it is advisable, in the interests of social peace and the general welfare, that special legislation be passed fixing the maximum dividend rate to be paid to shareholders, as well as forcing companies to pay part of then-profits in the form of additions to wages or salaries, is a highly debatable question, but hardly any intelligent person will take exception to the suggestion that, in the general interest, wherever possible, providing the earnings permit, the workers should benefit to the extent of a fair wage or salary, and thus be in a position to buy what they require and maintain a given degree of purchasing power that would tend to stabilize conditions.When we are confronted with the figures showing the amounts paid in dividends in 1932 and 1933.being respectively S87.446.352.and 870,744,038, we begin to appreciate the enormous amount of wealth that is paid out to those who are not actually employed as wage earners.One is again compelled to ask.why such huge amounts in dividends should be given to such a small percentage of the population in this country, and the workers forced to struggle on.hardly able, in the best of times, to make ends meet on the wages they get.The workers must, through their organizations, insist on getting increases in wages, as well as reducing working hours.A larger share of the proceeds of industry must go in the form of increased wages and salaries to those who make-possible the earning of the tremendous sums in dividends, which are distributed to those who hold shares in the companies able to pay such substantial dividends.Even the minimum wages, that are fixed in the several provinces, are by no means what they can and should be, in view of the very large amounts earned by companies, whether they be industrial, commercial, Dimming, carrying on their operations in the Dominion.We are opposed to slums, because from an aesthetic standpoint, they are an eye-sore, and from the hygienic, a danger to the health of the general community.To continue paying workers small salaries is dangerous to the social peace of the community, and makes for discontent and provides material for the revolutionary agitator.Experience has taught us that, in prosperous times, radical agitation meets with little or no approval from the workers The figures given bear out what has been said, on several occasions, that NEWS FROM OTTAWA.Money Power in Canada Contributed by the Bureau of Social Research, Ottaiva.THE GOLD RACKET Not the least of the peculiarities of our financial system is the present position of that magical metal known as gold.Two or three years ago, when the world conducted its monetary affairs upon a common basis of gold, the metal was predominantly a matter of concern only to central banks and governments, and moved about in response to forces arising mainly from disparities between monetary conditions in different countries.Now.however, it has become a most interesting and profitable article of commerce, traded in by innumerable private individuals, many of whom are making a very comfortable living for themselves.In every city and town you will find men whose soie business is the purchase of "old gold.” In fact, it is reaching the proportions of a “racket," for the seller is entirely at their mercy, and in nine cases out of ten.will agree to whatever price the buyer offers.By actual experience it has been found that the prices offered for an identical article will differ with almost every purchaser.Furthermore, it does not by any means follow that the most reputable concern will offer the highest price.In the city, a firm of jewellers known throughout the country consistently offered a lower price than can be obtained from the “fly-by-night” buyers.In doing this they are betraying the confidence of their customers, who come to them under the erroneous impression that they are going to get a square deal.When selling articles of gold lif you have any) it is a good thing to shop around amongst the various jewellers and gold-buyers; you will be surprised at the different offers you will receive.The price of gold, which used to be $20.56 per fine ounce, has now risen to around $35.00, and may possibly go still higher.This, of course, explains the sudden interest displayed by traders in this new article of commerce.A Tragic Story.It is interesting to note, according to a recent report from the Dominion Bureau of Statistics, that receipts of jewellery and scrap at the Royal Canadian Mint in July amounted to 5.856 ounces of gold; the June receipts were 5,195 ounces, while during the first seven months of 1934 gold content of jewellery and scrap received at the Mint reached the considerable total of 92.876 ounces.As the average price of gold for the last few months has been around $34.50 an ounce, this means that Canadians during the past year have disposed of jewellery and ornaments of the precious metal to the value of $3,200.000.No one will ever know the tragic stories that lie behind the cold figures.The high price of gold together with the distress caused by unemployment and general economic insecurity, has forced many a Canadian to part with threasured heirlooms and articles, the value of which in normal times could not have been measured in terms of mere money.What Is “Devaluation" ?The fact that this increase in the price of gold is termed "devaluation," is a source of considerable confusion to many.They find it Somewhat contradictory to the generally accepted idea of things, when devaluation apparently involves a higher lirice.Of course, the term devaluation does not apply to gold itself, but to the amount of gold which goes into the dollar coin.Under the old gold standard, one ounce of gold was divided into $20.00 and a few cents, while under the new standard one ounce is divided into $35.00.which means, naturally, that each of the new dollars must contain less gold; therefore the new dollars are devalued in terms of gold, because they have less gold in them.When President Roosevelt devalued the dollar last January, the theoretical value of the metal was increased from approximately S4.000.000.000 to $7.000.000.000.The government took this gold over from the banks at the old price and, by the in.re passing of the law, increased its value by about $3.000.000.000 President Roosevelt has out-smarted the bankers, who created billions of dollars of credit out of nothing.The President, by virtue of powers conferred on him by the people, was not tied down to the mere issue of "credit" but was able to draw billions of dollars in actual paper currency out of the thin air.While the issue of money by tiie banks in the form of credit was supposed to be based on so-called "reserves” and "deposits." the government is not hampered by any such imaginary restrictions, and there is no reason, except that of expediency.why tiie price of gold should not be placed at $50.00 or even $100.00 per ounce.¦ Trading in Gold.Gold, now loosed from the trammels of the old standard, under which its value remained more or less constant all over the world, has now become an article of commerce, subject to price changes and differences' in value which make it an exceedingly interesting and profitable commodity for speculators and financiers.In addition to its transformation into a commodity, however, it still possesses a unique quality arising from a world-wide belief in its virtues as a monetary standard.despite, the fact that there is actually no foundation for such a belief.It might have been expected, in view of the precarious position of the future of the gold standard, that interest in the metal might have slackened somewhat, but this very uncertainty, together with the possibility that the price may be raised still further in the not far distant future, is causing a world-wide "gold rush” strongly reminiscent of the gallant days of '49.A recent report from the Midland Bank (Londoni says: "the Bank of England has already more than U90.000.000 in gold with a current value of over *:300.000.000.and has already more of a barren asset than it needs." The Cream Of The Jest.After all.the essense of the matter, as far as England is concerned is this.Gold, in these times, as we have explained, is simply a commodity.But it is a commodity remarkably different from any other article of commerce, in that its price bears no relation whatever to the cost of production.It is produced mainly within the British Empire from mines owned largely in Great Britain.It is sold to foreigners at favorable prices, so that London is able to make a very handsome profit on its activities.Not only this; other countries, acting through their governments and central banks, guarantee a profitable price for'every ounce the Empire cares to produce.A very nice situation indeed! What other producers of commodities are in the happy position of possessing almost unlimited capacity to produce and a guaranteed market at a price away above the cost of production?Why.under these circumstances, should Britain be in any hurry to encourage arrangements which would make for a price stabilization?The present position of gold is a very profitable one to all gold producing countries, and that is one of the reasons why more determined efforts are not made to agree upon a standard of value.The control of the precious metal, which carries with it the complete mastery of economic conditions, is passing out of the hands of the financiers into those of the people as represented by the Government.a fact which clearly explains the anxiety of the international money barons to return to a definite standard.a number of large firms have reduced wages and salaries without any justification.They took advantage of the depression forcing their employees to accept cuts, and telling them that unless they were prepared to continue working for reduced wages, their positions were no longer available.This left the unfortunate worker no choice, but to accept, with bitterness in his heart, the reduced wage.The firms that have maintained wage schedules are, as I have previously pointed out.entitled to the thanks of the community.They have, within then-own sconomic circle, maintained the purchasing power of their employees.It is unfortunate that other firms, no worse off financially, did not follow their example, and thus lessen the effects of the depression which has reacted so disastrously against the welfare of the worker and the nation. Page 8 SAMEDI, 29 SEPTEMBRE 1934—MONTREAL—SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1934 Labor and Leisure "We are now in the midst of a revolution, a revolution which is leading us to the “Leisure State” in which the people as a whole will have a great deal more spare time on their hands than they have at present.Economic nationalism is a symptom of the coming of the Leisure State, for the problem of how to readjust the productive machinery so that every one shall have his fair share of the increased leisure which will be available, is so complex that it can only safely be attacked within smaller areas and not on a worldwide scale.” Lloyds Bank Review, July, 1934.) Lest the reader should be deceived into thinking that one of the world’s largest and most orthodox banks is at last beginning to see the light, let us hasten to add that they quote disapprovingly the above paragraph as an extract from a speech of Mr.Elliott, the British Minister of Agriculture, whose bold policies have been very disturbing to those who are still mentally living in the early days of the last century before the mechanization of industry."The Leisure State." The advent of the “Leisure State," amongst all forward thinkc-rs, is regarded as inevitable, in spite of the fact that the Lloyds Bank pundits dismiss Mr.Elliott’s' “revolution” and “Leisure State” as ‘t'he product of a lively imagination, like the technocracy of the Americans.” It would of course be entirely too “revolutionary” to expect bankers and financiers to admit such a possibility as the Leisure State, which infers a recognition of the fact that we are arriving at a condition involving the permanent unemployment of a large proportion of our population, or else such a drastic reduction in working hours that the problem of using our leisure time must receive serious consideration.The bankers cannot afford to admit such a possibility, for they would at once be faced with the, to them, insoluble problem of supplying the workless with sufficient money to maintain themselves and their dependents, or of reducing the hours of labor so that everyone could be employed, while still maintaining a wage rate which would enable them to support themselves.The coming of the Power Age has placed the banker and the industrialist on the horns of a dilemma.They must depend upon the wages of the workers to furnish the purchasing power necessary to consume the goods produced, and at the same time they are obsessed with the idea that the costs of production must be reduced through the use of machinery to the greatest possible extent with a consequent displacement of human labor.It would seem, therefore, that whether we continue for a further period under our present economic system or whether we gradually evolve a new order through the abilition of the old, we shall undoubtedly be faced with the problem of the proper use of our vastly increased leisure.The Use oj Leisure.In 1923 the International Labor Office issued a questionaire on the subject of the use of leisure by those whose idle time had been increased through shortened hours of work.Contrary to the expectation of the pessimist, “it was ascertained that excessive drinking had become less frequent in those centres in which the working day had been shortened.Excessive drinking is frequently the result of overwork, since the workman, tired by the continuous effort required by long hours, is tempted to seek relaxation by going from the workshop to the tavern.Not only has the new system failed to produce any increase in intemperance, but on the contrary, it has been one of a number of other important causes of the marked decrease in drunkenness which is attested by fiscal and judicial statistics.In all countries the introduction of a shorter working day has resulted in increased attention to sport on the part of the workers.The movement for physical development is rapidly gaining ground, and this is particularly true of Great Britain and the United States.’ The increase in the number of institutions and organizations intended to interest the workers in the various aspects of the political and social life of the nation, and to develop in them a sense of their responsibilities as citizens, is one of the signs of the times.The Art oj Living.After all, if most of us are disappointed bunglers in the art of life, it is through sheer lack of knowledge and practice.Few of us have any opportunity to practice the art of living and this is an art which must be studied justs as earnestly as music or painting, if we would acquire a reasonable proficiency.Our leisure time, when it comes for all of us, will not be a time of idleness, it will be a time of serious study, when those who wish to become familiar with the great musical masterpieces of the world may do so; and those who feel that painting, carving, woodwork and other forms of art appeal to them, will be given every opportunity to follow their inclinations.There has been, during the past few years, little talk of the “dignity of labor.” It is a canting phrase of the past which new conditions will turn into an absurdity; it is a phrase which belongs to the period of “belt-tightening,” "produce and save,” and "sound money.” Even the statesmen and politicians who have so belabored their audiences with these slogans are themselves becoming aware of their fundamental falsity, and it is more than likely that we shall never hear of them again.There never was anything dignified about the phrase originating with those who have never known a moment's toil, but whose interest it was to delude the worker into a false contentment with his lot.Organize for Leisure.Mr.Elliott’s ideal of the future is to organize for leisure instead of for labor.In carrying out that ideal, very man, in his leisure time, will be encouraged to use his own particular talent to the best advantage, provided, of course, that the result is advantageous to himself and the community.By working together and learning from one another we shall be able to make out this much dreaded machine-made civilization, which, inevitably, is the civilization of the future, an order of society which will release for each man his greatest and best powers, and a clearer understanding as to which part of life’s work should be mechanized and which part must for ever' be kept free from machinery.-— : o :-—- STRIKERS REINSTATEMENT ORDERED BY LABOR BOARD Caldwell Company oj New York Loses Fight jor Individual Contracts.Washington.— The National Labor Relations Board ordered Edward F.Caldwell k Co.of New York, manufacturers of lighting equipment to restore to employment within five days all workers who struck on May 28, discharging if necessary employees hired since the strike.The strike involves about 125 employees.The company was also ordered to bargain collectively with employes, the board declaring that it would supervise elections “if any question should arise as to the authority of Lighting Equipment Workers’ Local 19,427." The company has thirty-six days to complete the reinstatement, but is to report that it has begun reinstatement within six days.If it does not comply, the company will be reported to the NRA compliance division for removal of the Blue Eagle.For a number of years the Caldwell Company had individual contracts with about forty of its employees, but last Si mmer a majority of the company's employees made known a desire “to be ret resented by an outside organization for the purpose of collective bargaining,” the board said.It added that, nevertheless, LE MONDE OUVRIER The Labor World Rédigé en collaboration Le porte-parole des ouvriers organisés de la province de Québec The Bilingual Mouthpiece of the Province of Quebec Organized Workers Member of the Int.Labor Press Membre de la Presse internationale Ouvrière d’Amérique MARCEL FRANCQ Secrétaire de la Rédaction Secretary, Editorial Department The Canadian Converters Company, Limited 470 LAGAUCHETIERE ST.WEST MONTREAL Amherst Winnipeg BRIDGE CO.Limited Head Office and Works at LACHINE, P.Q.Branch Works: Ottawa Toronto Calgary Vancouver A GREAT CAN All 1A N INDUSTRY DOMINION TEXTILE CO.LIMITED fÂSHÎON-PRAFT chez LECHASSEUR, Limitée 974 ouest, rue Sainte-Catherine 281 est, rue Sainte-Catherine 375 ouest, rue Saint-Jacques Faites vos achats de MERCERIES et VETEMENTS Beautiful in appearance and perfect in operation.Made in Canada by Canadian workmen — for Canadian customers.A model for every need, moderately priced with easy monthly terms.Montreal Light Heat & Power CONSOLIDATED A better Gas Range -at Lower Cost the company began to promote signature of further individual contracts, later calling every employee to the office and asking him to sign revised individual contracts.For the first half of the present year thirty-seven of the larger industrial concerns of the United States report profits averaging 77.7 per cent over the same period of last year.That no trade union has been able to report an average increase in wages anywhere near 77.7 per cent may account in large measure for the apparent downward trend of purchasing power.-: o :- The American Telephone and Telegraph Company has declared a dividend of S2.25 a share, payable in October.The date when employees' wages will be advanced has not yet been announced.-:o:- “If you ever expect industrial peace in the United States you must outlaw the company unions,” declared Congressman William P.Connery, jr„ before the house rules committee of the United States.T E C II N I C A L EDUCATION TECHNICAL SCHOOLS MONTREAL QUEBEC HULL Technical course (four years) Apprenticeship courses Trade course (two years) Special courses.EVENING CLASSES: Montreal, Port-Alfred, Chicoutimi, La Tuque, Beauceville, Lévis, Lauzon, Saint-Romuald, Sherbrooke, Salnt-Hyadnthe, Valleyfleld, Lachlne, Shawlnigan Falls.1430, St.Denis Street, MONTREAL Director General of Technical Education Our Leading Amusement Places Dans nos Théâtres CAPITOL 11 .;!*» a.m.to I pm 0 Cp Except Siiinlay Lrfdv j WILL ROGERS in Spectacular Musical j “DAME S” I | RUBY KEELER.DICK POWELL ; | and JOAN BLONDELL 15es, Napkins, Serviettes île barbiers etc., et tout autre article i.l'usage île la toilette.LINGE DE FAMILLE A LA LIVRE Buanderie; 1871, me CARTIER Tél.: AMherst 8566 Résidence: 3851, rue Dandurant Tél.: CLairval 2230 The Windsor Hotel ON DOMINION SQUARE MONTREAL J.ALDERIC RAYMOND Vice-Président Tél.MArquette 3761.MONTREAL Wires and Cribles—Telephone Apparatus— Tire Alarm and Police Sienalllnr Systems — Kadio Transmitting: and Receiving Equipment.Made in Canada by Northern Electric COMI'ANV LlMITCI» Plant and General Offices MONTREAL, P.Q.All Imperial product* ore mannfnrtnred in Canada by Canadian Workmen, at • or nix modern Refineries • ne of which 1* locuted at Montreal East.IMPERIAL OIL LIMITED 153