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146
of the permanent staff of the Borough Engineer's Department to devote
their time to visiting rat-infested dwelling-houses where the occupiers
have asked for assistance in rat destruction. These men do not visit
wharves, warehouses or premises of persons in a position to engage a
rat-catcher. Their duties include the keeping of records of visits made,
the number of poison baits laid, the kind of poison used, and the results
obtained; also the number of rats caught in traps is recorded.
The work is carried out under the general supervision of the Borough
Engineer's Department. Reports as to the work done, with results
obtained, are submitted quarterly to the Public Health Committee.
The men are paid at the labourer's rate of wage. I am informed that the
results generally are satisfactory.
Considering the number of rat complaints which have been received
in the Department during the last year or so, it does not appear that there
would be sufficient work in private dwelling-houses for a whole-time
rat catcher, but I consider that the laying of poisoned baits and trapping
of rats in the sewers of the Borough should be carried out systematically.
I suggest, therefore, that a suitable individual on the Borough Surveyor's
staff be employed to lay poisoned baits and set traps in the sewers of the
Borough, and that his services should be available for those occupiers of
houses requiring assistance.
This matter has been discussed with the Borough Surveyor,who has
given his general approval to the suggestion.
If such a suggestion were approved, the co-ordination between the
Public Health Department and the person employed to lay poisoned
baits and set traps, could be effected in the following way:
On receipt of complaints of rats, the Sanitary Inspector would visit
the address given, carry out his investigation, as at present, and would,
in addition, offer the services of this rat catcher. Several houses may be
visited, and when he is satisfied that he has come to the extent of the
infestation, and has arranged co-operation between the occupiers of those
premises involved, the names and addresses of those occupiers who wish
to avail themselves of the services of the rat-catcher will be sent to the
Borough Surveyor.