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43
As recorded in my last report, so again, I am happy to be in a position
with a few exceptions, to report the continued satisfactory condition and
healthy state of the occupants of the boats inspected by me during the year,
there not having been a case of sickness or infectious disease.
The steps taken to secure compliance with the Acts and Regulations by
means of Complaint Notices and Certificates have proved somewhat more
successful than last year, as of the 43 contraventions found, 34 have been
remedied, leaving outstanding 9, as against 20 of last year ; of these 20 outstanding
contraventions 17 have been remedied, leaving only 3, which from
information are also probably remedied.
The following remarks as to the contraventions may be of interest:—
Non-production of Certificate. There is apparently no fixed place
of deposit for the certificate, so that often it cannot be found except by the
occupant who put it away.
Dirty Cabins. This contravention it will be seen has seldom been
met with.
Ventilation. This is a matter of opinion with many of the occupants,
they consider that the open space in the cabin is all sufficient.
With reference to the protection of the ventilators, I have only observed
nine boats during the year which were provided with shields.
Cabin dilapidated. By Regulation 11, "The master of a canal boat
which may have been registered as a dwelling shall cause every cabin that may
be used as a dwelling to be kept at all times in a cleanly and habitable condition,"
but, by Section 1 of the Act of 1877, the owner is also liable if he is at fault.
It is very often found that by structural defect the cabin is rendered unfit for
habitation in its entirety, or that the boat may have a leak at the bed place
causing the bedding to be wet and in a measure therefore that part only is unfit.
In conclusion I cannot close my report without again mentioning the urgent
need of sanitary accommodation for the women and children on canal boats
while stopping in this district.
Jas. I. SMITH,
Canal Boat Inspector.