Chief Health Inspector concerned about wastewater and animal rearing in residential areas

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By Kisean Joseph

[email protected]

Chief Health Inspector (CHI) Sharon Martin disclosed key public health challenges facing residential communities, primarily centred around improper wastewater disposal and animal-rearing operations in residential zones.

“Wastewater was one of the leading complaints, with numerous villagers reporting their neighbors’ wastewater from soak-aways, bathrooms, or washrooms flowing directly into their backyards,” Martin said.

A major concern is the proliferation of unsanctioned animal coops and pens in residential areas. “People are building these structures in their backyard, which sometimes is somebody’s front yard,” Martin said. The problem is particularly severe during rainy and cold weather when odors become more pronounced. “When it comes to [ram goat, ram sheep] … they urinate on themselves, and the ranking odour remains in the hair on their body. Sometimes you’re walking down the road, and you can smell them before you see them.”

Despite the practice being illegal in residential zones, enforcement faces resistance from owners who cite economic necessity. “They’re saying, ‘Oh, that’s my means of livelihood’,” Martin recounted. “I say yes, but people have the right to clean air, potable water, and safe food.”

The health department’s enforcement strategy typically begins with notices and can escalate to the magistrates’ court if compliance isn’t achieved. “It’s only at that juncture they decide that they’re going to take action,” Martin observed.

Martin also highlighted the role of landlords in addressing wastewater issues. She shared, as an example, a case where a tenant complained publicly about faecal odours, only to discover the source was a broken septic tank pipe on their own property.

“Sometimes, we have to be careful when we make complaints and blame other people. Check our yard first,” Martin said.

The issues are widespread across the island, particularly in built-up areas. Martin said that while she understands the economic pressures driving illegal animal rearing, public health cannot be compromised. “I am concerned about everybody working, making a little money to maintain their family, but not at the expense of people’s means of living in their homes.”

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