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87
HOUSE-TO-HOUSE INSPECTION.
The systematic house-to-house inspection was resumed in May, but the
progress was not so fast as one could wish, as owing to the general complaints
a great deal of attention had to be paid in other directions. The defects discovered
are very numerous owing to the neglect of the property; there is great
difficulty in getting materials, and the cost is high, all of which is seriously
handicapping the work and giving the inspectors a trying time. The by-laws
should be brought up to date so as to facilitate the work; especially does this
apply to keeping W.C. 's supplied with sufficient water for flushing, and keeping
yards and forecourts in good repair. A number of houses have been temporarily
repaired which, under normal conditions, should have been demolished.
The combined drain and sewer question is most important. I would strongly
suggest that two or three of the worst blocks of drainage, for which the Council
might be liable, be dealt with each half-year. A few years would then clear
those up that are an ever recurring nuisance.
PIG-KEEPING.
Very few nuisances have arisen during the year from this business, as the
pigs, generally, were well-kept and in a clean condition. The numbers are
on the decrease, due, no doubt, to the difficulty of obtaining restaurant waste
and to the present cost of meal.
CANAL BOATS.
There were 14 registered boats inspected during the year, and the boats
met with were well kept. The following"contraventions were dealt with:—
1 cabin top defective.
1 dirty cabin.
These defects have since been remedied.
THE SHOPS ACT.
The Shops Act was fairly well observed, but there are a few shop-keepers
who surreptitiously supply goods to their known customers at the side doors.
It was found necessary to take proceedings in one case only, and a small fine
of 7s. 6d. was imposed.
The following is a summary of the most important work done in connection
with the abatement of nuisances:—
Complaints 655
Infectious Disease 715
Common Lodging House 62
Bakehouses 39