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and Public Health Inspectors have pressed the Proprietors to
give their staffs instruction on these matters.
RAG FLOCK AND OTHER FILLING MATERIALS ACT, 1951
In previous years regular sampling has been carried out from
premises where filling materials are made and used but this year
it was discontinued. We were advised that no more testing would
be carried out at the laboratories as the Department of Environment
were considering the raising of the fees.
As soon as we have been notified of the new fees the matter
will again be dealt with.
PET ANIMALS ACT, 1951
10 licences were issued during the year} the extent of the
livestock in these premises is very small. During the year regular
visits were paid to all premises to ensure no nuisances occurred
or breaches of the licensing conditions. The premises are of a
high standard and no statutory action was found to be necessary.
PREVENTION OF DAMAGE BY PESTS ACT. 1949
During the year 777 notifications of infestations were received
of which 320 concerned rats. The remaining ^57 were in connection
with mice.
All cases were treated by the two Rodent Operatives with
satisfactory results.
PROTECTION OF BIRDS ACT. 19514
Pigeons
Early in the year staff at the Town Hall objected to an
infestation by pigeons emanating from derelict buildings adjacent
to their office. This problem was resolved when demolition of
the buildings took place.
Towards the end of the year complaints were received regarding
pigeons roosting on certain high rise blocks of flats in the Borough.
Advice was sought of the Pests Division of the Ministry of Agriculture
Fisheries and Food and arrangements made for steps to be taken to
deal with the problem including narcotising schemes,when the weather
permitted.
As a further aid, an sir rifle was purchased by the Department and
a number of the staff deputed to act as marksmen. Experience has
Droved that there is no short cut to the elimination of this pest and