367
The total number of animals slaughtered during the year shows a considerable increase on the figures for 1894. This is, as regards cattle and sheep, mainly due to the increased number of war vessels which were present in the Harbour during the year. The following table gives the figures for the past three years -
1893 1894
1895
Cattle. 17,896
Sheep and Goats.
13,776
16,898
10,937
19,218
12,592
Cow SHEDS.
Swine.
131,298
125,725
129,035
It is satisfactory to be able to record that not a single case of serious communicable disease occurred amongst the cattle (chiefly milch cows) housed in the various private sheds in the Colony. The sanitary condition of these sheds are carefully attended to by the Sanitary Inspectors stationed in the various health districts.
MARKETS.
Central Market. This fine new market was opened on the 1st of May, a few minor but necessary alterations have been made to the building since then, and everything is now in good working order. The staff for the market consists of an overseer, two night watchmen, and sixteen scavengers.
Western Market.-The buildings of this market are very old and do not by any means properly meet the requirements of the district. It is sincerely to be hoped that it will be found practicable to re-build it at an early date. The buildings, such as they are, are not in a good state of repair.
Saiyingpoon Market. The remarks made regarding the Western Market are applicable to this
market.
Wantsai, Sookunpoo, Shektongtsui, Yaumati, and Hunghom Markets. --The buildings are all in a good state of repair. The requirements of the district in which these markets are situated are adequately met.
Shaukiwan Market. The building is in a fair state of repair, but it is not large enough to meet the requirements of the district. However, as I understand it has been decided to either re-build or extend this market I need not say anything further regarding it at present.
PROSECUTIONS.
During the year 67 prosecutions were instituted for breaches of the Markets Ordinance and the bye-laws made thereunder, and 67 convictions obtained. The total amount of the fines inflicted was ($398.00) dollars three hundred and ninety-eight.
STAFF.
The Colonial Veterinary Surgeon went away on leave of absence on the 17th of June, and I was appointed to act for him during his absence.
Mr. WATSON was appointed Acting Assistant Inspector of Markets on the 5th of June, and was at once put in charge of the city slaughter-house and animal depôts at Kennedy Town, as I had to take over the duties of the Colonial Veterinary Surgeon. Soon afterwards Mr. McEwEN was appointed to act for Mr. WATSON as Assistant Inspector of Markets. I am very glad to be able to say that both of these officers have performed their duties in a highly satisfactory manner. Mr. G. A. SOUZA, Interpreter, was appointed overseer at the Central Market in May, and Mr. J. A. Souza was appointed Interpreter in his stead. Both of these officers have performed their duties satisfactorily.
One of the watchmen at the slaughter-house met with a fatal accident, and one was dismissed for neglect of duty. The vacancies thus caused have been duly filled, and the men appointed have given satisfaction.
Scavengers. Nothing of any importance has occurred amongst these inen, and as a rule they have performed their duties efficiently.
H. MCCALLUM, Esq.,
Secretary, Sanitary Board,
&c.,
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
& Gar
$c.
WILLIAM FISHER, Officer acting for the Colonial Veterinary Surgeon.