Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 293: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals in relation to the reform of the law in relation to fireworks; and if he will introduce legislation in this regard. [27113/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Explosives Act 1875 provides for the control of the importation, manufacture, storage and sale of fireworks. 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.

It is already clear, from the submissions received, that, among the options for change outlined in the consultation document, there is a general acknowledgement of the need to strengthen the enforcement provisions in the 1875 Act. Accordingly, I propose to take the opportunity presented by the Criminal Justice Bill 2004, which is currently before the House, 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 also propose to significantly increase penalties governing the illegal importation, sale and use of fireworks.