Warning over rats in Bogside laneways

As winter approaches, residents in the Bogside area of Derry have been called on to be alert for rats trying to get into local homes and outhouses.

The call comes from Sinn Fein Cllr Colly Kelly after residents complained about vermin being seen “running about” laneways in the area.

Cllr Kelly said: “A number of residents in the area contacted me and they have reported to me that they have seen rats running about the laneways off Elmwood Road.

“Some of this has happened during daylight hours.

“This time last year we had a similar problem when a number of dead rats were been found in the back gardens of local homes.

“I have contacted the Environmental Health services department at the Council and reported the current cases. They have stated that the issue of pest control is the responsibility of the householder.

“With winter now on us I would urge that residents to take every precaution to ensure that rats cannot get into their homes, out houses, garden sheds.”

Cllr Kelly concluded: “It is obvious that if anyone dumps the rubbish in the laneways they have no regard for others because while they wanted rid of the rubbish they were prepared to dump it on other people's doorsteps.”