asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware that the illegal importation of fireworks is increasing from year to year and that these fireworks are being used for the delight both of children and adults without any danger arising; and whether he is now prepared to introduce legislation to make proper provision for the safe manufacture and sale to the public of fireworks so that their use in future need not involve a breach of the law.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Importation, Manufacture and Sale of Fireworks.
28.
A decision to prohibit the importation of fireworks, except for properly organised displays, was taken by the Minister for Justice towards the end of the year 1948, after the country had experienced some three years of unrestricted importation. The decision was taken as a result of a growing and wellfounded volume of complaint about the misuse of fireworks. They were let off in the streets, in buses and in crowded buildings such as theatres. They were even pushed through letter-boxes to explode in people's hallways. I have no doubt that if they were allowed in indiscriminately now, we should have the same position all over again. I do not propose to alter the present rule but I am bringing to the notice of the Revenue Commissioners the suggestion in the question that fireworks are being brought in illegally.