AQW 34121/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 22/10/2025
Answered On Date: 03/11/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of current fireworks licensing arrangements, in preventing misuse and protecting animal welfare.

Answer:

I have no plans for an assessment of the existing fireworks licensing arrangements. The current regulations provide a robust framework that seeks to ensure fireworks are sold and bought responsibly for use by the public.

A condition can be added to any licence, where appropriate, to notify neighbours and/or animal owners e.g. farmers in advance of the display. Information is available year-round on the nidirect fireworks information webpage reminding the public to be considerate to others when using fireworks, especially vulnerable people and animals.

The licensing system aids partners, including PSNI, to identify unlicensed and illegal fireworks use. Offences committed under the firework regulations may result in a fine of up to £5,000, or a prison sentence, or both.

Any concerns about the misuse of fireworks should be reported to the PSNI.