As many of you know I attended the fireworks forums over the past couple of nights.

It is clear from these forums that much angst still remains over the issue of publicly available fireworks.  Some of the issues on both sides of the argument are:

Opposed to fireworks:

Property damage

Welfare of animals

Used outside designated hours

Public nuisance, too noisy

Illegal fireworks

In favour of fireworks:

Enjoyment of children

Social and community get togethers

Tradition in Canberra

Why should illegal use and a few larrikins remove the enjoyment of others

RSPCA’s position is that we are opposed to the sale of fireworks to the public.  We are not opposed to large scale, commercial displays that are run by professionals.  This position addresses all of the issues above.  Children can enjoy large scale displays, as can communities, families and friends.  A large display will ensure fireworks are only going off during a specified period of time, allowing pet owners to cater for their pets.  Large scale displays will remove the issue of property damage and public nuisance issues as well.

The issue of illegal fireworks is tough to address, suffice to say that policing and regulation would be a lot easier if fireworks were not available to the public.  With no fireworks in the public hands, any random letting off would represent illegal activity, so far easier for police to monitor and fine people.

In addition to the public forums the ACT government is running a survey.  I strongly encourage everyone to complete the survey.  You can locate the survey here

http://www.psm.act.gov.au/oir_fireworks.html

RSPCA will be providing a submission to the ACT government on this issue.  Your group is also encouraged to lode a submission.

Please complete the survey before the end of November, which is when the consultation period ends.

Thanks

Michael

PS: please circulate this email widely to your networks.