26/09/2013

Ford Urges Public To Apply For Fireworks Licence

Justice Minister David Ford has reminded the public that anyone wishing to purchase, possess or use fireworks, requires a licence.

He added that applications for the use of fireworks over the Halloween period must be submitted to the Department of Justice by no later than 23 October 2013.

Licence applications and a list of retailers licensed to sell fireworks are available from www.nidirect.gov.uk/fireworks.

Applications are also available by telephoning 0300 200 7881 or directly from a retailer.

Minister Ford explained: "The law is very clear. For safety purposes, a licence is required to buy, sell or use fireworks. It is therefore an offence to proceed without one.

"The application is very straightforward and my Department will process them as quickly as possible, although I would encourage the public submit their application in good time."

The Minister also warned about the risks involved in purchasing fireworks from sources other than a registered supplier.

"Please do not be tempted to buy fireworks from anywhere other than a supplier who is registered by the Department of Justice. It is a risk that is not worth taking. Buying fireworks from illegal sources means you just don't know the safety credentials of the products.

"Not only are you gambling with the safety of your family and friends but you could face prosecution for breaking the law," he added.

Registered retailers are easily identified as they must display their current licence or certificate of registration prominently at the point of sale.

He continued: "Complying with the law and the fireworks safety code is paramount for all concerned. Halloween is an enjoyable time and in order that the fun is not taken out of it, I would ask everyone to act responsibly."

The licence fee where there are less than 100 spectators is £30; for 100 to 1,000 spectators is £80 and for more than 1,000 spectators is £160.

(JP/CD)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

27 November 2024
Pathway Fund Applications Open For Early Years Providers
Education Minister, Paul Givan, has announced the opening of online applications for the Targeted Early Years Pathway Fund for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 academic years. The Pathway Fund, introduced in 2016, aims to provide early years education services for children aged 0-4 who may be at risk of falling behind in their education.
03 October 2013
Ministers Urge Safety This Halloween
Northern Ireland's Health and Justice Ministers have urged the public to stay safe during Halloween celebrations this year. The announcement follows a record low in the number of people injured by fireworks. Just 14 incidents were reported last year.
22 October 2019
Deadline Looms For Fireworks Licence
Anyone wishing to buy or use fireworks in the coming days and weeks is urged to seek a fireworks licence by tomorrow, Wednesday 23 October. Local government services are reminding members of the public it is an offence to buy or have fireworks without one.
07 October 2014
Justice Department Warns Over Fireworks Licences
The Department of Justice has reminded the public that anyone wishing to use fireworks requires a fireworks licence. The Department has said applications for the use of fireworks over the Halloween period must be submitted by Friday 24 October 2014. Justice Minister David Ford said: "The law is very clear.
11 September 2023
Firework Display Organisers Urged To Submit Licence Applications
Anyone planning a fireworks display this Halloween have been urged to apply for a licence "in good time". It is an offence to buy or be in possession of fireworks without a licence and applications for the Halloween period must received by the Department of Justice by close of play on Friday 20 October 2023.