Vol. 450 No. 6
146 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice the legislation, if any, which is planned to restrict the availability of substantial fireworks to the public; and the new regulations, if any, under consideration to control the sale of fireworks and bangers. [5599/95]
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.
Despite this restriction, it is clear that supplies of fireworks continue to be imported illegally into the country, particularly around Hallowe'en each year. The Garda authorities are aware of the problems posed by this illegal trade and take appropriate measures to counteract these problems.
Moreover, the Garda authorities monitor the supply and storage of fireworks. Significant seizures are made each year as a result of their vigilance. In 1993 and 1994 illegally imported fireworks valued at approximately £116,000 and £120,000 respectively, were confiscated by the Garda over the Hallowe'en period and subsequently destroyed.
