Politicians agree public consultation on fireworks

Lisa YoungChannel Islands
News imageReuters Red and white star-shaped fireworks in a black sky. The silhouette of a person is in the foreground with their face turned up watching the display and there is a hand holding a mobile film. Reuters
Deputy Max Andrews made the proposal due to his concerns about the effect pyrotechnics have on animals

Jersey politicians have agreed to hold a public consultation about the use of fireworks and the impact they have on animals.

The States voted to gather views from islanders and animal welfare organisations on whether the current laws need reform and suggestions of ways to mitigate negative impacts.

Deputy Max Andrews made the proposal and said he believed animals became distressed by the noise and lights of firework displays.

The Explosives (Jersey) Law 1970 allows anyone over the age of 18 to buy fireworks in Jersey and hold their own display, requires retailers wanting to sell fireworks to be licensed and their sale is currently only permitted between 25 October and 5 November.

The minister for justice and home affairs has been charged to undertake the consultation and present findings by June 2028.

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