Minister for Justice urges people in Louth not to misuse fireworks

Around the Halloween and midterm season, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee is urging people in Dundalk, Drogheda and the wider Louth area not to misuse fireworks this year.

Not only are fireworks illegal but they also have a highly detrimental impact on some of our most vulnerable members, including the elderly and those with sensory issues.

In support of the awareness raising activities and work of the various organisations involved in this year’s campaign Minister McEntee said: “As the Halloween festivities begin, I would urge everyone to refrain from purchasing or using illegal fireworks.

“They can cause severe injuries and I sincerely hope that parents in particular will seriously contemplate this before purchasing them for their children.

“A safer alternative is attending a professional fireworks displays organised in your local area or other fun Halloween events taking place in the community.

“There are serious consequences for those caught misusing fireworks.

“A person convicted of having fireworks in their possession with intent to sell or supply can face penalties including a fine of up to €10,000 and up to five years imprisonment.”

Each year the Department of Justice runs an annual campaign to inform the public about the serious dangers associated with fireworks and the significant penalties that people face for selling or using illegal fireworks.

The objective is to remind people that the buying, selling and use of illegal fireworks is an offence and complacency or ignorance of the law concerning fireworks will not matter if you are found to be distributing or in possession of such products.

This year’s campaign focuses on the significant distress that fireworks can cause vulnerable people in our communities, particularly elderly people and those with sensory issues.

They can also cause great harm and stress to family pets, guide dogs and assistance dogs, and that is why this year’s campaign was launched in collaboration with the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, the ISPCA, Dublin Fire Brigade, and An Garda Síochána.

The Minister continued; “Fireworks can be very frightening for elderly people living alone and they can also seriously aggravate guide and assistance Dogs and other pets.

“I think that is important that we are mindful of these groups and consider the effects it has on their wellbeing.”
Minister McEntee concluded:

“I would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Halloween, especially those in our emergency services and that everyone can feel included in this year’s festivities.”