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These Acts came into operation on the first day of
January, 1937.
The Shops (Sunday Trading Restriction) Act, 1936,
received the Royal Assent on 31st July, 1936. It became
operative as from 1st May, 1937.
As in previous years, the Home Secretary made an Order
suspending the operation of the general Early Closing Order
from 18th to 24th December, inclusive. This did not, of
course, relieve occupiers of the obligation to comply with the
Weekly Half-holiday Order in force, and, as a consequence,
a number of enquiries were dealt with by the Department.
Petroleum Acts.—One hundred and four applications
were granted for permission to keep petroleum, ninety-two of
these being for the renewal of existing licences.
Sixty-three inspections were made of the various premises
in respect of which licences had been issued.
Fouling of Footways by Dogs.—Only two complaints
were received regarding this matter during the year, and they
were investigated immediately. As I have pointed out in
previous Reports, a considerable amount of time is taken up
by the Inspectors in these investigations as the complaints
usually refer to a portion of the district without a definite
road or place being mentioned. It must be clearly understood
that the Bye-laws in force apply only to dogs on a lead.
I would again emphasise that the closest co-operation on the
part of the general public and dog owners in particular is
needed if these Bye-laws are to be made really effective.
Employment Agencies.—Visits were paid, at irregular
intervals, to the premises of the twelve licensed keepers. Only
one breach of the Bye-laws was observed. In this case the
occupier had failed to notify change of address, but did so
after the Inspector's visit.
Employment of Children Bye-Laws.—In connection with
the employment of children, observations were made during
the year and two hundred and forty-seven breaches reported
to the Education Authority.
This work is done mainly outside office hours, on Sundays,
and public holidays. Further details relating to this matter
are given in the Report of the School Medical Officer.
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