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16
Complaints received of infestations numbered 142,
and these together with cases discovered by members of
the staff involved the inspection of 932 premises. Rat
infestations were found at 116 premises and mice infestations
at 52 premises. Of these 123 treatments were undertaken
by the department, the remaining 45 being carried
out by the occupiers.
When treatments are carried out by this department
on behalf of the occupiers, a standard charge of five
shillings is made in the case of private dwellings, and
the full cost of the treatment in the case of business
premises. Where the occupiers elect to carry out the
treatment themselves, advice and supervision is given to
ensure that the treatment is effective.
In conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries, Infestation Division, a survey of the whole
of the Longford River and properties adjoining was
undertaken. Due to lack of co-operation on the part of
a small number of the occupiers of infested premises,
statutory notices under Section 6 of the Prevention of
Damage by Pests Act, 1949, had to be served, but the
success of the treatment was assured. A subsequent
treatment and survey of the river banks has shown that
the rats have been almost completely eliminated.
Arrangements were made with the Middlesex County
Council for this department to carry out any rodent
control works necessary on the portions of the Duke of
Northumberland's River and the River Crane in this
area.
Rag Flock and Other Filling Materials Act, 1951.
One establishment whereat filling materials were
used was registered.
Disinfestation
Twenty-three premises were found to be infested
with bed bugs and were disinfested :
Council houses infested 5
Other houses infested 18
The method of disinfestation normally employed
was spraying with contact insecticides incorporating