Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I ask the Leader for a debate on fireworks. The Criminal Justice Act 2006 introduced changes which we hoped would make a difference. The situation is worse than ever. In the past three years there have been 11 court appearances relating to fireworks, yet there was not one conviction. While I accept it has not been a full year, this year there have been 30 seizures in comparison with 126 for 2005. The changes made have had zero impact and the situation is worse than ever. I understand one man in Clontarf had his car burnt out lately. Every part of Ireland is badly affected by fireworks. We must have a debate to see what we can do to resolve the matter. The changes made last year did not work.

I also call for a debate on road safety. It is regrettable that Fianna Fáil voted down the drug testing element in the Private Members' Bill in the Dáil last week.