Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It is only necessary to walk through parts of Dublin at night to witness the very visible misuse of fireworks within our communities. A constant barrage of flashing lights and noises is making our communities seem to be in a state of lawlessness. Elderly residents are living in fear and are afraid to leave their homes. Shopkeepers and local businesses are fearful for their staff and customers because fireworks are being aimed at them or into their premises. Bus routes have also been curtailed, which has resulted in people having to walk through areas at night where fireworks could be aimed at them.

As the Minister mentioned, it is not yet even Hallowe'en yet. This situation has been going on longer this year than in other years, for some reason. The Minister referred to the legislation seeming to be strong enough. If it is not the legislation that is the problem, it would seem to be a problem with Garda resources. I put it to the Minister that Operation Tombola is not working and is not fit for purpose.

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