Minister for Justice, Heather Humphreys has launched the Department of Justice Fireworks Awareness Raising Campaign for 2021. This year’s annual campaign emphasises that fireworks are illegal because they are dangerous and urges people not to buy them, sell them or use them. Minister Humphreys highlighted the serious dangers associated with fireworks and the significant penalties that people can face for selling or using illegal fireworks. Penalties imposed can be as high as €10,000 and/or up to 5 years in prison, if convicted.
Minister Humphreys also noted the significant distress that fireworks can cause for people in our communities, particularly the elderly or those with sensory issues. They can also cause great harm and stress to family pets. The department will run an information campaign from next week until early November. An Garda Síochána say a special operation known as operation Tombola will be in operation country wide leading up to and during Halloween. “Operation Tombola” is designed to prevent and detect the sale, supply and possession of fireworks and address anti-social behaviour in our communities. Legislation came into effect in 2006, which make it an offence to possess a firework with intent to sell or supply, without a licence, light unlicensed fireworks or throw or direct a lit firework at any person or property
Minister Humphreys emphasised that while Halloween can be a really enjoyable time for children, teenagers and their families, we all must work together to ensure that everyone in our communities feels safe and unharmed during this exciting time of the year.
