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The use of insecticidal lacquers referred to in previous
years has continued with good results, The long period of toxicity
of such materials compared with the use of powders is the means
of a considerable saving in labour. With insects, as with rodents,
it is essential to maintain strict watch and control, particularly
in food premises. Infestations can readily build up if proper
hygiene work is not done. There is also risk of re infestation by
insects being introduced with new stock.
SECTION D.
HOUSING.
During the year the Rent Act, 1957 came into operation.
This important piece of legislation will have considerable
effect on existing properties which, in many cases, were
deteriorating because the income was insufficient for them to
be maintained in good repair.
Whilst this enactment is strictly a matter between
landlords and tenants, the Local Authority is concerned with
the issue of Certificates of Disrepair where these are
requestedp and the consequent certification of the repair works
involved.
The following is a tabulated statement of action taken
from 6th July to 31st December, 1957.
Number of Applications 77
Number of satisfactory Undertakings received 49
Number of Certificates of Disrepair issued 16
Number of Proposals to issue Certificates of Disrepair
outstanding pending expiry of three weeks 1
Certificates of Disrepair made under 1957 Act.
Number of applications for cancellation 2
Number of objections -
Number cancelled -
Certificates of Disrepair made under 1954 Act.
Number of applications for cancellation 2
Number of objections 1
Number cancelled 1
The number of applications received is a fair average
for towns of similar population figure and character. In the
case of houses which remain under control, there appears to be
little difficulty in applying the provisions of the Act. Pew
of the applications have been made out of a sense of injustice
and the relatively high number of undertakings which have been
given is an indication that the owners are prepared to carry
out works of repair which can be considered to be reasonable in
extent.