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14. RODENT AND INSECT PEST CONTROL.
The work of rodent and insect pest control has continued as in
former years and a prompt and efficient service was provided to both
householders and business concerns. Twenty vertical block control
schemes were carried out together with three treatments for sewer
control. During the year 11 drainage systems defects were found
which had been the cause of rat infestation.
Infestations relating to dwellings are often traced to
accumulations of rubbish in back gardens. The service provided by
the Corporation whereby discarded furniture and household chattels
are removed should receive wider publicity. These articles would
not then provide harbourage for rodents in back gardens and the
service may be the means whereby a reduction could be effected in
indiscriminate dumping of unwanted furniture and household goods on
waste land and open spaces.
The pest control service provided on a contract basis to the
industrial and commercial interests in the town is appreciated and an
effective and readily available control has been maintained. The
Authority's service is held in esteem by the officers of the Ministry
of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. During the year instructions
and demonstrations were given to 96 colonial students and field
officers. We on our part readily acknowledge the co-operation of
the officers of the Ministry, particularly with regard to identification
of unusual insects.