asked the Minister for Health the staff engaged by each of the county boroughs to deal with rats in their area; and whether he is aware of the continued complaints of rat infestation, particularly in built-up areas.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rat Infestation.
44.
Mr. O'Malley
The staffs engaged on rodent control in each of the county borough areas are as follows:
Dublin—One supervising health inspector with a staff of 31 rodent control operatives.
Cork—One health inspector specialising in this work, with the assistance of such rodent control operatives as may be necessary.
Limerick and Waterford—Each of these two health authorities has seven health inspectors on the staff, each of whom deals with complaints of rat infestation in his respective area.
My Department is aware of complaints from time to time of rat infestation. Such complaints are dealt with as they arise by the appropriate health authority.
Is the Minister satisfied there is sufficient staff for this work in the various county boroughs, having regard to the fact his Department are aware of continued complaint? If the Minister is so satisfied, would he advise the county boroughs in question?
Mr. O'Malley
We have the matter under consideration.
Would the Minister convey his views in this matter to the county boroughs?
Mr. O'Malley
If the Deputy wishes me to reiterate what I have said here, I will certainly do so.