Doretta
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NPTA Rodent ReportThe latest Rodent Report has been published this week and gives serious cause for concern:
http://www.npta.org.uk/index.html
Both rat and mouse infestations have increased and, as we have suggested, there appears to be a link between poorly-managed waste collection systems and the increasing promotion of home composting in unsuitable bins. As more councils introduce charges for pest control of rats it is assumed that the situation is even worse than indicated in this report. Residents object to having to pay up to £100 for a pest control officer to attend their homes to treat rat or mouse infestation. It is in all our interests for the cost of this essential service to be included within our council tax.
Our members report problems to us - rat infestations, not only in gardens but also in homes. Many state that they had never experienced these problems when receiving a weekly collection of general waste. They obviously find this distressing and find it hard to believe that councils now charge fees to rid them of vermin (most insurance companies do not cover damage caused by vermin). They resort to buying poisons and try to treat the problems themselves. This poses risks for children, pets and other wildlife.
Under the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949, councils have a duty to keep their area as pest free as possible. In our opinion they are failing in this duty and putting public health at risk.
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