This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Fireworks figures published
30/12/2003
Fireworks can light up Hogmanay celebrations - but
revellers should also ensure they don't bring in 2004 with
an unwelcome bang, Minister for Finance and Public Services
Andy Kerr said today.
The Minister was speaking today as he revealed the
number of fireworks and bonfire-related incidents over the
period around Bonfire Night had fallen slightly.
There was a 1.6 per cent drop in reported incidents -
from 5379 over the same period in 2002 to 5293 this
year.
The government is tackling the irresponsible use of
fireworks which can create misery for people and pets in
communities. New regulations have come into force over the
festive period in advance of measures which will be in
place next year.
The Minister said:
"There is no doubt fireworks can add to the magic of
Hogmanay and ensure a spectacular start to the New Year. We
all enjoy well organised displays or domestic fireworks
safely used at home.
"But, unfortunately, the irresponsible use of fireworks
can create misery in our communities. The times of year
when fireworks are used are not always happy for many
people and pets.
"The Executive has worked closely with the UK Government
and Bill Tynan MP on the new legislation which will come
into force next year to tackle the irresponsible use of
fireworks.
"We also welcome the interim measures which will be in
force over the festive period. These measures will ban
under-18s from having fireworks in a public place and also
bar all members of the public from possessing high-powered
fireworks.
"The number of reported firework and bonfire-related
incidents over the period which covers Bonfire Night fell
this year in Scotland.
"Over seven weeks from the end of September to early
November, there was a 1.6 per cent drop in reported
incidents. They fell from 5379 over the same period in 2002
to 5293 this year.
"That is a small but significant step in the right
direction and I hope we can make more progress next year.
Good work by people working at the frontline and the
measures being introduced by the government will make a
real difference.
"I would also urge people to be careful over the festive
season. Enjoy the spectacle of fireworks at a well
organised display and ensure you have a safe and happy
start to 2004."
For further details on the fireworks legislation, visit
the Department of Trade and Industry website at
www.dti.gov.uk
Figures for fireworks and bonfire incidents report to
police - 2002 figures in brackets:
w/e 28/09/03: 64 (81);
w/e 05/10/03: 128 (186);
w/e 12/10/03: 331 (292);
w/e 19/10/03: 674 (775);
w/e 26/10/03: 889 (1096);
w/e 02/11/03: 1443 (1122);
w/e 09/11/03: 1764 (1827).
Total: 5293 (5379).
5 November alone: 600 (818).