Limerick, – In a recent meeting of the Limerick Harbour Board, concerns were raised regarding a letter from Mr J. J. Peacocke, Borough Surveyor, highlighting the potential health risks associated with rats in the area. The discussion centred around a circular issued by the Local Government Board and Public Health Committees, addressing the possible propagation of diseases by rats and proposing measures to mitigate the risks.
The Chairman of the Harbour Board, Mr W. Holliday, J.P., acknowledged the issue, noting that rats, believed to have originated from foreign goods, particularly Italian brooms, were a common sight around docks and storage areas. He suggested that the Harbour Board take action to eliminate these vermin. Mr E. J. Long injected a touch of humour into the discussion, questioning whether import duty was paid on the rats, eliciting laughter from those present.
The Chairman recommended the use of rat virus by the Engineer, Mr Moroney, for rat extermination. However, Mr Moroney expressed reservations about the effectiveness of the virus, stating that the authorities on the subject were not clear about its efficacy. The Harbour Master added that since the introduction of the virus, the rat population had tripled. Mr Quin highlighted the prevalence of rats in the current year, describing it as particularly bad.
At the weekly meeting of the Board of Guardians, chaired by Mr M. Noone, the Board received further information about the rat infestation. The Doctor drew attention to the extreme danger posed to helpless patients in the vicinity due to the swarm of rats. He emphasized that previous efforts to exterminate the rodents had not been successful, urging the Board to carefully consider the matter.
The Doctor recommended covering all holes in the wards with zinc to prevent rat intrusion. Mr Caalin shared an anecdote about a village where rats were so tame that they fed alongside poultry. He suggested using poison in this case, as blocking holes proved ineffective. The Chairman acknowledged the severity of the situation and stressed the need for immediate action.
In response, the Clerk informed the Board about the potential employment of a professional rat-catcher as a remedy. Mr Caalin expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of rat catchers, stating that they often only temporarily deterred rats. Given the absence of the Doctor, the Board decided to defer a definitive resolution until the next meeting, where decisive action is expected.
The rat infestation issue underscores the importance of addressing public health concerns promptly. As Limerick grapples with the challenge of rat proliferation, local authorities are compelled to explore effective measures to ensure the well-being and safety of residents. Further discussions and actions are anticipated in the ongoing efforts to combat this concerning problem.
Weekly Freeman’s Journal – Saturday 01 April 1911
