Swimming instructor refused to do union man’s work

—April 13, 1906 Joe Fortes, the popular swimming instructor at English Bay, appeared before the park commission on Wednesday night in reference to his duties at English Bay. Joe has been handed over to the park board along with the other appurtences of the beach, and recently Superintendent Eldon requested him to assist in the painting of his house at the beach, but he declined the job, saying that it was not included in his list of duties. Before the board he stated that he refused to do the work because he understood a union man was working on the job and he did not want to get into any labour complications. He defined his work as that of special constable, and appeared averse to changing his line, though the commissioners assured him his present position was different, inasmuch as Simpson Bros. now had control of the buildings for two years. Chairman Tisdall suggested he do the chores about the beach, but Joe said he was only willing to do more work for more pay. It was finally decided to notify Joe that he would hereafter be under the direction of Supt. Eldon, and would perform his usual summer duties as swimming instructor until further notice.