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Ruddy calls for fireworks
clampdown
13.10.08
AN Inishowen local
election candidate has called on the Gardaí to clamp
down on the illegal use and sale of fireworks in the
run up to Halloween.
Sinn Fein's Seán Ruddy said officers should
introduce a number of high visibility patrols in
hotspot areas to prevent criminal damage and anti
social behaviour arising from the irresponsible use
of fireworks.
"Every year we are seeing the ever-increasing sale
of illegal fireworks and in particular bangers,
which are illegal.
"New legislation that would restrict the use of
fireworks to public fireworks displays should be
introduced to ensure the community is safe. The
current legislation is not working due to our close
proximity to places like Derry and Strabane where
fireworks are sold quite openly," said Mr Ruddy. |
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He said Halloween led
to a period of "dread" for many people every year.
"The reality is that fireworks are causing serious
injuries and there will be a certain degree of fear
in the community in the lead up to Halloween night.
The use of fireworks will unfortunately result in
people, and particularly children, being maimed and
injured. We must also remember the distress that
these fireworks cause to many family pets."
Mr Ruddy, who will stand for a seat in the Inishowen
electoral area of Donegal |
County Council next
year, said many people he had spoken to wanted to
see an end to this "yearly ordeal".
'I believe new legislation should be introduced that
encourages more public firework displays. Children
and their families should be encouraged to enjoy
fireworks at public fireworks displays conducted by
professionals rather than purchase fireworks for
home or private use," he said. |
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