Dog Owner Mathison Welcomes Minister’s Response to Illegal Fireworks
Alliance Strangford MLA Nick Mathison has welcomed commitments from the Justice Minister to crack down on the use of illegal fireworks following a debate in the Assembly chamber.
He said: “I have received significant contact regarding the use of illegal fireworks in the weeks surrounding Halloween.
“In most cases, young people are setting off fireworks in residential areas late into the night. Not only is it illegal to use fireworks without a license, but it is also incredibly distressing for many children, elderly people and pets.
“As the owner of an incredibly anxious dog, I am all too aware of the trauma that fireworks can cause and the impact that this will have on many families.
“That is why I welcome Naomi Long’s proposal to include fireworks as part of the planned sentencing review, providing the opportunity to consider the associated penalties with breaching the existing regulations, which should act as a further deterrent to their mis-use.
“The Minister also made it clear that the setting of decibel noise limits on the fireworks available to consumers is not a devolved matter and is the responsibility of the UK Government.
“Following the debate, I will also be writing to Office for Product Safety and Standards in England to raise concerns about permitted noise levels.’
“I hope residents will be reassured that the Minister is doing everything within her power to ensure that the use of illegal fireworks carries a strong deterrent that will put an end to reckless behaviour each October.”
