Illegal Fireworks.

Wednesday, 29 September 2004

Questions (964)

Joe Costello

Question:

1147 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he proposes to take to prevent the illegal importation and sale of fireworks here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22825/04]

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Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I would like to assure the Deputy that I am very much aware of the distress that illegal fireworks cause to people, especially around Halloween.

I am currently considering proposals to increase significantly the penalties under the Explosives Act 1875 for illegal importation, public sale and use of fireworks in the context of an overall review of the legislation in order to strengthen the powers of the Garda Síochána in tackling the problem.