DC&SDC: Firework motion to protect people and pets passed

Derry City and Strabane District Councillors have passed a motion brought by DUP Alderman Keith Kerrigan and seconded by DUP Alderman Maurice Devenney requiring all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people.

The Council will also write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90db for those sold to the public for private displays.

SDLP Councillor Steven Edwards proposed an amendment which was seconded by SDLP Councillor Martin Reilly, that Council also agrees to write to the Minister of Justice and the Chief Constable of the PSNI to raise concerns about the misuse of fireworks in private dwellings and request an update on their plans to tackle this issue within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

Alderman Kerrigan explained to Members that the motion had been brought forward to him by the RSPCA explaining that ‘they have had 1543 calls in relation to fireworks and their effects on animals.’

Colr Edwards fully supported Alderman Kerrigan’s motion. On proposing an amendment he added: “ I think it is a very important issue. I do think we need to do more in terms of use on private land.

“I want to see what the PSNI are doing across our Council area to tackle the misuse of fireworks and I do know that people are selling these fireworks who are not registered retailers.”

Alliance Councillor Rachael Ferguson said: “I fully support the motion and amendment.

“Many communities have been tortured over recent months by young ones being able to purchase fireworks. I would like to work more and highlight the illegal fireworks.”

Both the original motion and the amendment were passed.

By Gillian Anderson

Local Democracy Reporter