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32
Inspector Lapworth, the oldest officer in the Department, passed
away in January, 1901, at an advanced age, after having been
absent on sick leave for many weeks. I desire to place on record
my appreciation of the fact that when some few years ago the
change in the working of the Department took place, he loyally
accepted the new order of things, and faithfully endeavoured, so far
as advancing age and failing health permitted, to render all the
assistance that lay in his power. That he represented a bygone
system is true beyond doubt, but for all that I have pleasure in
testifying to his unswerving loyalty and anxiety to forward the
work of the Department.
Before closing this Report, I would beg to be allowed to express
my deep sense of the loss sustained by the Sanitary Department
specially, and the district generally, by the death of Mr. Jame
Parnell. He was a member of the Committee for some years, and
for three years filled the position of Chairman. During this period
I had constantly to consult him on various matters, and on every
occasion found him desirous that the work should be done in the
most efficient manner possible. To me he was far more than a
Chairman of the Sanitary Committee, important as that position
is. He was ever ready to advise and encourage one to persevere
with any difficulty that arose, and the officer who tried to do his
duty whilst he was Chairman always found in him a helper and a
friend.
I beg to be allowed to tender my sincere thanks for the courtesy
and continued support rendered to me by the Chairman and members
of the Committee throughout the year, and to assure you that such
support is deeply appreciated. In concluding, I beg to solicit your
most favourable consideration of the work of the Officers and Start
of your Department for another year, and am,
Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen,
Your most obedient servant,
JOHN FOOT,
Assoc. Mini. Royal Inst. Public Health.