Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 39: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Questions Nos. 166 and 167 of 13 October 2004, if the promised legislation (details supplied) will be in place before 31 October 2005. [21326/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The control of the importation, manufacture, storage, sale and use of fireworks is provided for under the Explosives Act 1875. As the Deputy will be aware last February I published a fireworks policy consultation document and initiated a process of consultation with a view to bringing forward proposals for amending and strengthening the provisions in the 1875 Act. My Department has received a wide range of submissions in response to the consultation document which are currently being examined. However, it is already clear, from the submissions received to date, that, among the options for change outlined in the consultation document, there is a general welcome for my proposals to strengthen the enforcement provisions, in the 1875 Act.

I now propose to use the opportunity presented by the Criminal Justice Bill 2004, which is currently before the House, to make the necessary amendments to the 1875 Act. I propose to bring forward, on Committee Stage of that Bill, amendments which will provide for new offences governing the misuse of fireworks in public places and an offence of possession of illegally imported fireworks with intent to supply. I am also proposing to significantly increase penalties governing the illegal importation, sale and use of fireworks.

The Criminal Justice Bill is currently on Second Stage in the House and it is my intention to have it enacted as quickly as possible.