Page 3330 - Week 11 - Thursday, 12 September 1991

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MINISTER FOR HEALTH

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTION

QUESTION 510

Kambah Health Centre

Mr Humphries: To ask the Minister for Health:

1. Is it the case that occupants of the Kambah Health Centre have been complaining about hygiene problems resulting from the presence of possums in the Centres roof.

2. When was the first complaint received.

3. What are the public health implications of the presence of the possums in the centres roof.

4. What action has been taken to humanely remove the possums and clean up the mess they have created.

5. Why has action not been taken earlier.

Mr Berry - The answer to Mr Humphries question is:

1. I regret that it is the case that occupants of Kambah Health Centre have been complaining about hygiene problems resulting from possums in the roof.

2. Unfortunately, possums have been gaining access to the space between the roof and ceiling for some two years.

3. The public health implications are that the continued presence of excreta in the space above the ceiling causes unpleasant odours and is a focus of attraction for further infestation.

4. The procedure for removal of the possums as recommended by Parks and Conservation is to trap the possums and hold them whilst the holes allowing access to the roof - ceiling space are plugged to prevent future access; excreta is removed; ventilation ducts are covered with wire mesh and the area is cleaned. Possums are then released.

I should point out that possums are a significant feature of Canberra suburban life. Every effort has been taken to treat them humanely.

3330

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