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opened up a wide sphere of activity for the Public Health
Department by the new powers conferred upon local
authorities to deal with squalid conditions in premises
occupied by members of more than one family. The Offices,
Shops and Railway Premises Act, 1963, will bring further
increases in the work and responsibilities of the department
when it becomes operative.
It is regretted that this Report is later than usual
in publication but the staff of my department has been
subjected to extreme pressure during the past few months.
In addition to the increased responsibilities referred
to above, the very severe weather conditions at the
beginning of this year gave rise to a multiplicity of
complaints of environmental difficulties in which the
department's assistance was sought; staff shortages and
absences through sickness have also contributed to the
general delay.
I would like to take this opportunity of paying
tribute to the loyal and diligent assistance I received
from the staff of my department throughout the year,
often in very trying circumstances. I would also like
to express my thanks to the Members of the Council, the
other Chief Officers and their staffs for the support
and co-operation they have so willingly given.
I am, Mr. Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors,
Your obedient Servant,
H. D. CHALKE,
Medical Officer of Health.