Fireworks Safety Bill

Tuesday, 31 October 2006

A bill seeking to ban the retail sale of fireworks to individuals has been placed in the ballot for Members’ Bills by Wellington Central MP Marian Hobbs.

“Earlier this year, people from the electorate approached me with concerns about the illegal lighting of fireworks throughout summer. This illegal and irresponsible use of fireworks has been a nuisance and caused distress to many people.” Marian Hobbs said.

The SPCA is concerned about animal welfare, and every year, the Fire Service counts the huge cost of putting out fires started by the reckless use of fireworks, let alone the danger to property.

Almost all those concerned want the community-organised fireworks displays to continue. But they also want the individual acts of intrusive vandalism curbed, the MP said.

“This Fireworks Safety Bill allows for communities to hold public fireworks displays. It allows for permits to be issued by the local authority so groups can hold a fireworks display within the commonsense conditions set. It will allow communities to celebrate events any time during the year, not just Guy Fawke’s.

“This means the PTA of the small rural school can seek permission from its district council and hold a fireworks display that the whole community can enjoy. The Indian community in Kilbirnie can apply for a permit to celebrate Diwali. Fireworks displays organised by the community will continue, but there should be an end to individual buying and use of fireworks.

“Because this is a Member’s bill there has been little consultation with local government or retailers. So the select committee process is going to be very important in working through the issues,” Marian Hobbs said.

The Bill has yet to be selected from the Ballot. Once it has been, copies will be made available to those interested parties.

Marian L Hobbs
MP for Wellington Central

ENDS

© Scoop Media