Garda seizures of illegal fireworks hit five-year high

GARDA seizures of illegal fireworks reached a five-year high in 2017, new figures show.

Gardaí made 183 seizures of fireworks and explosives last year, up from 132 in 2016 and 92 in 2015.

The last time so many firework-related incidents were recorded was 2012, when gardaí made 267 seizures.

Ireland has some of the strictest firework laws in Europe. Regulations were tightened in 2006, making it illegal for the general public to use them. They must only be operated by professional operators.

Meanwhile, in the North, where regulations are less stringent, licensed retailers are permitted. One is Thomas McKevitt, who runs a store in Newry, Co. Down.

He told RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland the law may be exacerbating the black market trade. And he warned that fireworks stored in inadequate facilities – subject to damp, for example – could affect the function of the product, and ‘it could explode in your hand rather than go into the air’. ‘That’s why I say there should be licensed premises everywhere that people can come and buy from because they know it’s safe,’ he said.

It is illegal to possess any fireworks that were legally purchased outside the Republic and then brought into the State.

A Garda spokesman said anyone found in possession of fireworks will be liable for prosecution and that throwing ignited fireworks in public places is another specific offence. They also urged parents to confiscate any bangers and fireworks found on their children around Halloween.

‘Each year many children and young people suffer terrible injuries caused by fireworks, including burns, loss of limbs and serious eye injuries,’ a Garda spokesman warned.

Yesterday Dublin Fire Brigade launched its ‘Be Safe – Stay Safe’ Halloween safety campaign which culminates in firework displays next Wednesday. The campaign informs young people about the dangers of illegal bonfires and fireworks.