Fireworks haul shows need for guaranteed annual operation – Richmond

A commitment to an annual fireworks operation is required following the largest seizure of the explosives this year by the Gardaí since 2016, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Fine Gael TD for Dublin Rathdown, Neale Richmond, made the call after receiving details of seizures made through Operation Tombola, which was launched by the Gardai to combat the sale and use of illegal fireworks.

Deputy Richmond said: “While fireworks are illegal in Ireland, their use is still widespread in many communities, especially around Halloween. This year was no exception, with reports of firework use emerging as early as this summer with communities across Ireland plagued.

“To combat this, Operation Tombola was launched by the Gardaí ‪on September 4th, one month earlier than previous years. Perhaps this should now become a permanent feature?

“Figures released to me through a Parliamentary Question to the Minister for Justice reveal that the Operation was certainly successful, with 121 seizures of 250 explosives being reported this year alone.

“The haul of 250 explosives was the biggest since the operation began in 2016.

“These explosives held a value of €36,341, down from a high of €53,129 in 2018 but still an alarmingly high figure. Worryingly, there were 312 firework incidents reported this year alone.

“Fireworks are hugely dangerous when used carelessly and illegally and can cause catastrophic injury from burns to the loss of limbs.

“As such, it is undoubtable that these seizures have prevented countless injuries and perhaps even saved lives.

“Given the success of this year’s Operation Tombola, it is clear that this must be an annual operation.

“The use of illegal fireworks has a huge impact on many communities across Ireland, my office was inundated with calls from parents of frightened children, pet owners and also from elderly persons.

“Those caught with illegal fireworks with intent to sell or supply can face fines of up to €10,000 and five years in prison, however, it is clear that this alone is not a sufficient deterrent to the purchase and use of illegal fireworks.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home and community and the continuation of such campaigns by the Gardaí must be guaranteed,” Deputy Richmond concluded.