There still seems to be a thrill of illegality about the use of fireworks at Hallowe'en, judged by their extensive use in the last few days and a spate of violent incidents associated with them. This adds to the strong case for legalising fireworks in order to ensure safer standards, since it has not proved possible to enforce the terms of the 1875 Explosives Act, which bans their use.
News that the Department of Justice is to review the legislation is welcome. In recent years, criminal gangs have moved into the business by importing sub-standard Chinese fireworks from Asia and the United Kingdom, profiting from huge mark-ups. Despite greater Garda surveillance and seizures, there seems to have been little difficulty securing them all over the State. They are dangerous in themselves, as hospitals and doctors can readily testify; when added to the partying and drinking seen and heard this year it is a potent mix which requires better regulation and supervision.
This year, fireworks have been legalised in Northern Ireland, where there have been fewer violent incidents and accidents. The Police Service of Northern Ireland says it has been a safer few days as a result. If fireworks were legalised in both jurisdictions it would be easier to impose standards and tackle smuggling. Already those engaged in the illegal trade can use the profits made to develop other criminal activities, so cross-Border police co-operation makes good sense for both services.
There is a limit to what can be done by legislative reform and law enforcement, however. Parents and local communities have an obligation to ensure that safety standards are met and to explain how dangerous fireworks are. If properly overseen, they can be used creatively and enjoyably, as has been the case at the big displays during recent St Patrick's Day holidays. Professional standards and public responsibility, together with legislative reform, are quite capable of tackling the problem. They will be all the more necessary now that people can afford to buy fireworks more readily.
If fireworks are legalised, quality controls could be introduced by allowing sales only through recognised and licensed outlets. This would undermine criminal supplies and add to the Government's revenue.