Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 481: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made in drafting legislation to deal with fireworks since the first announcement of his intention to change the law; and when he will introduce new legislation to Dáil Éireann. [30252/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The law governing the control of the importation, manufacture, storage and sale of fireworks is the Explosive Act 1875. The Deputy will be aware that 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 provision in the 1875 Act. My Department has received a wide range of submissions in response to the consultation document which are 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 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 increase significantly penalties governing the illegal importation, sale and use of fireworks.