It’s time to end private fireworks sales in Scotland
A year that has been marred by firework chaos must mark the end of private individuals being able to buy fireworks from supermarkets and online, says Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman.
Edinburgh Zoo tragically reported the death of Roxie, a four-month-old red panda, from stress caused by fireworks in nearby residential areas this November, just weeks after her mother passed away.
In May, Scottish Green Councillors in Edinburgh and Glasgow moved motions to introduce strict city-wide firework control zones ahead of Bonfire Night.
Only small neighbourhood control zones were created, resulting in continued firework misuse on Bonfire Night. 32 people were arrested in Edinburgh on charges relating to firework misuse.
The 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, pets and wildlife.
Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman said:
“The festive season is a time of celebration for many, but each year we see the continued misuse of fireworks, which causes stress and anxiety for many people and animals.
“Organised and well-managed events and displays can be important and celebratory events that bring people together. But what we need to end are the dangerous, unorganised displays in residential areas.
“These are not only dangerous - fireworks are explosive devices after all - but also stressful with the bangs and screams causing distress to many.
“The sale of fireworks in supermarkets and online causes mass chaos for emergency services between October and Hogmanay each year, putting immense stress on front-line workers at an already extremely busy time.
“We do not allow the unlimited sale of explosive devices in any other situation. It’s time we put the safety of communities and animals ahead of profits for supermarkets and online retailers. The New Year must bring an end to these sales for good and make our communities safer for everyone.”