People buying outdoor fireworks in Northern Ireland will need a special government licence, it was announced today.
The law is being introduced next month to tighten controls on sales following street disturbances when police and army officers were attacked with mini rockets, air bombs and bangers.
Northern Ireland Security minister Ms Jane Kennedy said: "What should be a source of entertainment has, in many areas, become a public nuisance.
"I am not so naive to think that these measures alone will solve all the problems. But the regulations demonstrate that I will do whatever is necessary to improve the quality of life for both the general public and the security forces," she said.
Sales of fireworks in Northern Ireland were banned for years, but restrictions were lifted in l996.
From May 6th people looking to buy outdoor fireworks will have to apply to the Northern Ireland Office for a licence. Anybody found to have illegally held fireworks face fines of up to £5,000. Indoor fireworks and sparklers are exempt.
But one retailer warned that the move could result in more dangerous rockets coming onto the market. Mr Jim Beggs said: "The sale of fireworks isn't going to be stopped; this will simply push it underground".
PA