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38
Prevention of Damage by Pests Act, 1949.—This Act, which
repealed the Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act, 1919, came into operation
on 31st March, 1950. All Local Authorities are required to take all necessary
steps to keep their districts free from rats and mice. To this end
inspections must be made and, where rats or mice are found on premises
to serve notice on the occupier to carry out specified treatment and works
to exterminate them and to enforce the duties imposed by the Act on
owners and occupiers of land. Where an owner or occupier fails to comply
with a notice served by the Local Authority under the Act, the Local
Authority may carry out the work and recover the costs incurred. Failure
to comply with the notice renders the owner or occupier liable to a penalty.
It is the duty of all occupiers of land to notify infestations of rats and
mice in order that the Local Authority may carry out their duties under
the Act.
During 1950, 185 complaints were received of the existence of rats
affecting 196 premises. In 25 of these cases poison gas was used and in
the remaining cases other means of eradication were employed. 1,533
visits were made by the Sanitary Inspectors.
The Council decided to appoint a whole.time Rodent Operative, who
commenced his duties on 1st January, 1951.
Petroleum (Consolidation) Act, 1928.—The Sanitary Inspectors
made 585 visits to premises where petroleum is stored, or in conjunction
with the installation of such storage, and tested 6 petroleum appliances
or fittings.
The number of Licences issued was 135, and the fees paid to the
Council for such Licences was £96 5s. Od. One Licence was issued for the
storage of calcium.carbide, the fee payable being 5s.