PM: Fireworks must be regulated

Speaking later at the post-Cabinet news conference at the Office of the Prime Minister in St Clair, Minister in the Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Stuart Young stated, “There is legislation in place to deal with fireworks and explosives and that legislation should be enforced.” Young explained that the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) deals with the noise component of fireworks while the sale and licensing of fireworks is monitored by the Police Service.

Young was certain that both the EMA and the police are aware, “of the impending prevalence of fireworks’ use at periods such as Christmas time.” He added, “I would hope they would enforce the law.” The minister disclosed, “The Government is looking at the reform of the legislation. We are looking at change in policy et cetera and that is something you will hear about in the coming months.” During debate on the Finance Bill 2016 in the Senate, Independent Senator Dr Dhanyshar Mahabir suggested the imposition of a 25 percent nuisance tax on fireworks and regulations which will see fireworks only used between 11.30 pm and 12.30 am.