Written Answers. - Enforcement of Fireworks Legislation.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:
65
Mr. Rabbitte
asked the
Minister for Justice
if she has satisfied herself with the enforcement of the law regarding fireworks, in view of the evidence of their widespread availability around Halloween; if she has satisfied herself that a total ban is the most effective way of controlling fireworks; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Under the Explosives Act, 1875 a licence is required to be issued by my Department for the importation of fireworks. It is long-standing policy that such licences are only issued for organised public displays conducted by professional operators.
I am satisfied that this policy is the best way of protecting the public from the inherent dangers of fireworks, while ensuring that they are not deprived of the enjoyment of the spectacle of fireworks operated by knowledgeable persons in a controlled environment.
It is clear that, despite the restriction that applies on the legal importation of fireworks, supplies of fireworks continue to be imported illegally into the country. I do not believe that a total ban on importation would change that position.
As regards enforcement of the law, the Garda authorities have assured me that in the months preceding Halloween, to the extent that was possible having regard to the many other demands on their services, they paid special attention to particular areas where unlicensed fireworks were being made available to the public.
The measures adopted by the Garda included:
—the deployment of personnel to known trouble areas to deal specifically with the problem;
—liaison with local authorities and the fire brigade service;
—warning on the dangers connected with fires and fireworks which were broadcast on local radio stations on the days leading up to Halloween.
As a result of these measures the Garda authorities made a number of significant seizures of illegally imported fireworks in the period up to Halloween.
