Greens call for ban on firework sales following tragic red panda death
The tragic death of four-month-old red panda, Roxie, must be the final straw for the private sale of fireworks in Scotland, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland has reported that a four-month-old red panda kit has passed away at Edinburgh Zoo citing stress from fireworks being set off in the nearby area as the likely cause of death.
Scottish Greens have long campaigned for the end of sales of fireworks to private individuals due to the stress and harm they cause to vulnerable people and wildlife.
Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman said:
"It is really tragic to hear that Roxie has passed away at Edinburgh Zoo; this must be the final straw for the Scottish Government and Councils to take action against firework sales.
“While many people enjoy fireworks, for many others the period from late October to Hogmanay is a dangerous and stressful time. Unfortunately, this has been proven so yet again today.
“Scottish Greens have campaigned for legislation to allow councils to implement city-wide bans on the sale of fireworks to individuals and limit displays to organised and well-managed sets. It’s time for all parties to work together to deliver a ban on private sales.”
Edinburgh Greens councillor Dan Heap has led calls to implement a city-wide Firework Control Zone which would see wildlife, pets and vulnerable residents protected from firework noise.
Cllr Heap said: "This very sad news, that really underlines the importance of having a Firework Control Zone across Edinburgh.
“We know that many animals, from pets to wildlife are caused extreme stress by the noise of fireworks, it is simply unfair to allow this to continue.
“The Scottish Government must urgently clarify guidance on city-wide control zones so we can prevent this happening again next year.
“I hope that other parties will work with Scottish Greens to bring in this city-wide Firework Control Zone.”