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44
by the Chairman of the Vestry's Public Health Committee when I
commenced the inquiry, have been kept in mind, namely—
1. That since the reorganisation of the work of the department
some twelve months ago, and the appointment of two new
Inspectors, an increased amount of work has been effected in the
district.
2. That at least one-fifth of the total population reside in
blocks of artisans' dwellings which, having resident superintendents
and being let to tenants subject to certain regulations,
require less supervision on the part of the Sanitary Authority than
other premises.
3. That much small property in the district is being replaced
by commercial premises, and that the consequent decrease in
population will lead to a less amount of work being necessary
under the Food and Drugs Act.
These points, however, do not affect the fact that the Staff is at
present inadequate to deal with conditions now existing in the district
and requiring action by the Vestry. Further, the substitution of
commercial premises for houses and a possible decrease in the resident
population does not necessarily mean a lessened amount of inspectorial
duties if these premises comprise a large number of work-places. The
conditions enumerated in the earlier part of the Report are mostly such
as can be readily dealt with under the Public Health Act; but it may
be desirable to resort to the powers which the Vestry possess under the
Housing of the Working Classes Act in the case of some of the older
houses in the parish, as well as in such cases as Baltic Place and
Court and Beckford Square, where there is an absence of rear space.
The method of collection of house refuse in the parish requires to
be further improved, so as to secure the cleansing of ashpits at all
premises once in each week.
The Shelter which is being provided for the use of persons during
the disinfection of their rooms is, as at present proposed, open to
objection in being approached by the entrance and staircase, which
also leads to apartments reserved for the Vestry's Wharf Superintendent,
and it is desirable that one room should be set apart for use
as a bath-room.
The addition of a separate chamber to the Mortuary for the bodies
of persons dying of infectious complaints is also desirable.
C. W. F. YOUNG,
Assistant Medical Officer of Health.