A meeting of the Ammanford War, Emergency and Relief Committee was held at the Schools, Ammanford, on Thursday night. Mr. B. R. Evans presided over a good attendance of members.
The Civic Guard Sub-Committee presented a report defining the duties which would fall to the lot of the civic guard to perform. Generally, they were to act as volunteer Territorial Reserve.
It was stated that no man within the prescribed ages now appealed for by Lord Kitchener, or who could possibly join the Territorials, should enrol himself in that force.
It was recommended that permission be given to print twenty-five posters announcing the fact that the Civic Guard has been formed and inviting members.
It was further resolved that no money be spent without the consent of the general committee, but that otherwise the sub-committee be given full powers; also that the original resolution as to boy scouts be adhered to.
After some discussion, the report was adopted.
The Ambulance Sub-Committee reported that over fifty first aid members had now entered in their names for the brigade formed. Five of those who had previously enrolled had volunteered for the front. Several of the collieries had been asked for the use of stretches and splints for practices, and lectures were being delivered at the Church room.
This report was likewise adopted.
The minutes of the Relief Sub-Committee showed that a letter was read from the Prince of Wales Fund, suggesting correspondence with the County Council. It was resolved that the secretary write again to the clerk of the County Council for full particulars, so that they may be co-opted if possible.
The Secretary was authorised to print collecting books, and the area was divided into small districts, for each of which two collectors were appointed. Another duty dedicated to these collectors is to report on any cases of distress that may be in their districts. The secretary was also instructed to write to all the colliery officers for a list of names of the men in their employment serving with the colours, and who receive relief.
It was agreed that the offer of the lessee of the Palace Theatre be accepted, and that a committee of five be appointed to arrange with Mr. Mills.
Many cases of distress were brought to the notice of the sub-committee. Discussion ensued as to relief measures in general.
Rev. E. J. Rosser Evans stated that Bonllwyn should naturally be included in the Ammanford district, and Mr. J. Harries raised the case of Lower Bettws and Garnswllt. It was decided that both districts be involved, the secretary in the former case being asked to communicate with the Llandebie Committee.
The scope of the duties which the various organisations would perform, particularly the County Distress and Employment Committee, gave rise to the much discussion, and in the end Alderman W. N. Jones stated there would be a meeting of the Committee early the following week, when he would ascertain the position and report
Mr. Mod Thomas asked if they did not think some provision ought to be made for those who were starving.
Alderman W. N. Jones: Are there any?
Mr. Thomas: Yes. Cases have been brought to my notice. (He referred to a particular case, and it was decided in that case that the collectors should report immediately, and, if necessary, give relief in kind.)
Several members stated that cases of distress had been brought to their notice, and that inquiries failed to substantiate the tales of woe given by those persons.
On the suggestion of the Vicar, it was decided that the Relieving Officer (Mr. W. Popkins) be co-opted on the committee.
Alderman W. N. Jones proposed that a sub-committee of five, consisting of the Chairman, Messer's J. Morgans, J. Phillips, W. L. Smith, and Revs. J. W. Jones and E. J. Rosser Evans, he appointed to deal with very urgent cases, the collectors to report to them. This was carried.
On the notion of Mr. T. M. Evans, the sum of £5 was voted towards the Red Cross local committee.
With regard to the proposed general collection, it was explained that the matter of also making collections at the various places of worship would be left to the discretion of the churches.
Alderman W. N. Jones hoped the public would clearly understand that the house to house collection would be apportioned among the various organisations. now in existence, and that their contributions would be accordingly increased.
