Naomi Long: The seizure of illegal fireworks is an operational matter for the PSNI and the Chief Constable. The number of incidents in which the PSNI have seized fireworks over the last four years is as follows: 148 in 2016-7; 120 in 2017-18; 129 in 2018-19; and 149 in 2019-2020. The number of fireworks seized in each incident is not counted. The law is clear on the purchase, possession and use of...
Naomi Long: ...interaction personally with Executive colleagues on this matter. However, I am aware that Belfast City Council, at the request of one of my colleagues, is now taking forward public education about fireworks and on better educating people about the law. That was passed by Belfast City Council's policy and resources committee on 24 January. The council also has a role in developing community...
Naomi Long: ...serious. I know that, from my Department's point of view, the law is robust in this regard. However, part of the issue, as Mr Allen said, is that we need to get information to the PSNI about where fireworks are being bought and sold illegally, because that would make a huge difference. However, there are things that central government could do. For example, lower-noise fireworks can be...