Large Halloween fireworks stash seized by Mayo gardaí

A ‘significant’ quantity of illegal fireworks has been seized by gardai while they were being transported to the Ballina area. 

Senior officers reckon the value of the amount of ‘bangers’ and ‘rockets’ confiscated to be in excess of a four-figure sum – that is €1,000.

Superintendent Joe Doherty, head of the Ballina garda district, says the fireworks were to be sold in the north Mayo area as part of the annual Halloween trade.

Gardai say the fireworks were seized from a lone driver at a “routine checkpoint” on one of the main approach roads to Ballina.

The driver was subsequently held for questioning by gardai.

Supt. Doherty has reissued a garda warning to youngsters and their parents about the serious injuries, even death, that can result from the use of Halloween fireworks.

There is a potential for injuries for injuries and property damage, he signalled, as well as the significant penalties that can accrue from the illegal use of fireworks.

It is an offence to possess a firework with intent to sell or supply, without a licence, light illegal fireworks, or throw or direct a lit firework at any person or property.

Last week, the Minister for Justice, Charles Flanagan cautioned: “It is really important that anyone who intends to illegally purchase fireworks to mark Halloween knows that these devices can be extremely dangerous and cause very serious injuries.

"I want young people and their parents, in particular, to be aware of the risks – fireworks may be beautiful to watch but can be devastating if handled incorrectly," he said.

Having unlicensed fireworks in your possession with an intent to sell or supply can result in a fine of up to €10,000 or up to five years imprisonment or both.

Igniting fireworks or throwing an ignited firework at a person or property is also liable to the same severe penalties.