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post were carefully considered by the Committee: namely,
1st, Sanitary Inspectors; 2nd, Sanitary Engineers; and
3rd, Medical men, who had undergone a special training and
a special examination in Sanitary science and practice.
1st. There is much to be said in favour of the appointment
of an experienced Sanitary Inspector. A man of this
class would necessarily have received a thorough training in
the duties he would be required to supervise and direct.
But, if it were decided that such a person should be selected,
it would be manifestly unfair to seek him from without.
For among our present staff of Inspectors are men who are
at least as well-fitted for the post as any outsider is likely
to be, and who in respect of practical knowledge of sanitary
drainage have few, if any, equals in their own class.
2nd. In view of the important duties in respect of
drainage which have recently been devolved on the Inspectors,
it has been thought that some young Sanitary
Engineer, who had been trained in modern sanitary
methods, would be a desirable occupant of the post. And,
no doubt, if the kind of man contemplated could be
obtained he would, as regards this particular item of duty,
be of very great service. But, on the other hand, unfortunately,
such a man would be a novice in all other
departments ot sanitary work, and in regard to them would,
scarcely be (at any rate for a time) a suitable or trustworthy
adviser or overlooker. Moreover, unless the Vestry's choice
ot such an officer should be a fortunate one, he might
instead of a sanitary reformer, turn out an obstructive, and
so do more harm than good. Still, good officers of this class
and obtainable. After having made inquiries, however, I