Agenda item

The Trading Standards & Licensing Manager, Performance and Public Protection presented a report to Committee, updating Scrutiny on the issues facing the Public Protection’s Community Warden Service, in particular the pest control service.

It was noted that since March 2020 the community warden service had been operating with one Community Warden as opposed to two, prioritising complaints / requests based upon the public health risk. 

From September 2021 this will return to two full-time officers.  Data relating to number of requests logged each year since 2016.  The statutory duty on the Authority was outlined, and it was noted that the authority will need to achieve accreditation under the SSIP scheme in order to resume joint sewer baiting work with Dŵr Cymru. 

An outline was also provided of the Farm Pest Control Services offered by Ceredigion County Council, Dog Wardening and the Dog Fouling Enforcement Services, and it was noted that four temporary officers were appointed over the summer using Welsh Government hardship funding to ensure that visitors visit Ceredigion safely and in a responsible manner.

In addition to acquiring SSIP accreditation, it was noted that the Service proposes to create a new Pest Control Policy setting out charges for various pest control services and a new safeguard for those on low income and vulnerable households, and that the Service plans to consider alternative ways of increasing dog fouling patrols / enforcement.

            The following questions had been raised by Members:

·         Members asked whether illegal tipping into drains was also a concern. Officers noted that it applied to fat and oils also, and that legislation was brought in circa 3 to 4 years banning the use of macerators.

·         Members noted that they had been informed that a single officer did not have the right to lift a manhole cover by themselves and asked whether equipment could be provided to assist with this. Officer noted that manhole covers are the property of Dŵr Cymru, therefore Officer do not have the authority to lift these, and a SSIP accreditation is required in order to carry out such work.

·         Members asked whether the increased dog attacks on sheep was a matter for this Service, noting that members of the public generally contact the Police for such matters

·         Members asked whether Officer handling poisons are given regular health checks.  Officers confirmed that this used to happen on a regular basis and that that this would resume shortly.

·         Members asked regarding staffing resources. Officer noted that there are now two full-time members of staff, and that this would be reviewed following re-commencement of work with farms, wasps etc.

·         Members asked about our rights in relation to dogs fouling on public footpaths. Officer noted that the challenge is to catch them in the act

·         Members noted that they would like to see a report outlining a clear way forward with regards to rodent control, as opposed to report outlining the situation.

Following discussion it was agreed to:

Review the situation in 6 months, and that the Service provide a detailed report outlining the income generated, and a clear way forward in relation to dealing with the issues highlighted in the report.