rats

Or rather, they never left…

Dimitris Ilias-LJI Journalist

Our newspaper, Park-Extension News, has frequently reported on the ongoing rat infestation issue in  Parc-Extension, underscoring its persistent nature and the community’s struggle for resolution. This problem is notably severe around the Maxi grocery store and the vicinity of the Parc metro station, where open garbage cans and discarded food have not only attracted rats but pigeons as well, further complicating the situation.

City councillor Mary Deros has voiced her frustration regarding the maintenance of cleanliness and the challenges in managing the burgeoning pest population. Despite attempts to curtail the issue through measures such as installing informational panels discouraging the feeding of wildlife, these initiatives have seen limited success.

The accumulation of waste is a pervasive issue extending beyond public spaces into residential areas. This has spurred members of the community to take action, with organizations like the Bureau d’information de Parc-Extension (BIPE) leading the charge. BIPE has been vital in organizing clean-up operations and educational workshops to enlighten both established residents and newcomers about effective waste management practices, a narrative our newspaper has consistently followed and supported through our coverage.

Acknowledging the severity of the rat infestation, the borough has taken steps like hiring a rat exterminator and actively monitoring the situation. Nevertheless, the problematic behavior of individuals who feed these animals continues to be a significant hurdle. Through our ongoing reporting, Park-Extension News aims to emphasize the critical need for community cooperation and the collective effort required to tackle this vexing issue effectively, aligning with the local government’s acknowledgment of the situation’s gravity.