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the relevant sections of the Act are not being contravened is in
progress. This is one branch of the Sanitary Inspector's work
which has been sacrificed at the altar of civil defence. Progress
is being made, however, and it is contemplated with some
confidence that future reports will make demonstrable atonement.
Offensive Trades
Byelaws with respect to fish frying and offensive trades
were adopted by the Council on the 21st October, 1939, and
confirmed by the Minister of Health on the 13th December, 1939.
The byelaws come into force on the 1st February, 1940.
Smoke Abatement
Although no action was taken during the year, it cannot be
claimed that the district is without offenders. On the contrary,
a flagrant contravention attracted my attention at the close of
the year and early in 1940 letters were written and the responsible
engineer was interviewed in an attempt to prevent a recurrence
of the nuisance. This report is not concerned, however, with
the result of such action, and the 1940 report will discuss its
outcome more fully.
Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act, 1919
One complaint was received with regard to rat infestation,
and upon investigation it proved to be well-founded. The
County Rats Officer, with whom the closest co-operation is
maintained, was notified and ultimately the matter was left
in his hands. I welcome this opportunity of placing on record
my indebtedness to the County Rats Officer for the advice and
assistance which that Officer, when consulted, courteously
proffered.
Civil Defence
Since the outbreak of war, much of the Sanitary Inspector's
time has been taken up with war time duties as Ambulance
Officer and Billeting Officer. He has also been nominated by
the Council to deal with the treatment and disposal of foodstuffs
contaminated by gas. As a consequence the amount of time
which he can devote to public health matters has been considerably
curtailed.