The Minister for Justice has warned people who try to import fireworks across the Border that they will face the full rigours of the law.
Under new legislation introduced last year, people who import or trade in illegal fireworks can face up to six months in jail and up to €10,000 in fines.
The Tánaiste told the Dáil today that gardaí will fully enforce the new laws during the Halloween period.
"There are people queueing up north of the Border to buy fireworks with the intention of bringing them south. All I would say is that if the Customs men stop them, and I hope that they do stop them, their car is liable to be confiscated as well as the impending criminal prosecutions."
Representing the Taoiseach, Mr McDowell added: "I warn people that the law is much tougher than it was and the consequences of breaking it are very serious."
A national advertising campaign is currently highlighting the dangers of illegal fireworks and the new fines and jail sentences that can be imposed.
Earlier, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny asked during the Order of Business what specific Garda operations were in place to seize fireworks.
"We've had evidence this week of firecrackers being thrown at petrol stations and thrown randomly at cars," he said. "What enforcement is there given the potential seriousness of attacks like that and the fear engendered, particularly towards the elderly?"