Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Oct 1995

Vol. 457 No. 1

Written Answers. - Fireworks Regulations.

Eoin Ryan

Question:

144 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice the regulations governing fireworks and bangers; the new regulations, if any, under consideration to control the sale of firearms and bangers; and the action, if any, he intends to take to highlight the danger to the public. [14884/95]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

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 Halloween. Each year at this time a concerted effort is made by an Garda Síochána to control the illegal possession, sale and use of fireworks and bangers. Special measures are also taken in addition to the normal routine policing measures. These include the setting up of a special Garda unit consisting of a garda sergeant and three gardaí specifically to deal with the fireworks problem; attention to known trouble areas; liaison with other services; and arrangements to have the dangers of fireworks publicised in the media.

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 gardaí over the Halloween period and subsequently destroyed.

I assure the Deputy that I am satisfied that the policy in regard to the issue of licences allied with the measures taken by an Garda Síochána 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.