Write a commentPolice in Newry are asking the public for their support in tackling illegal fireworks. The request comes following a firework attack on a dog in the Derrybeg area around 8.35pm yesterday when police received a report of youths setting off fireworks beside a dog. The dog sustained serious injuries to its face and had to be put down.
Neighbourhood Inspector David Hutchinson said: "This was a cruel and vicious attack on a defencelsss animal. Fireworks are not toys and this simply demonstrates how destructive fireworks can be when they are used in the wrong way."
"Everyone should be aware that you need a licence to purchase fireworks and the legal age to obtain a licence is 18 years old. The law clearly says that fireworks must be bought from a licensed dealer who is required to keep sales records. Fireworks bought from other sources could be of a sub-standard quality. Fireworks that do not have instructions printed in English are illegal, as are all bangers. The purchase, possession or use of fireworks without a licence is an offence. "Fireworks licences can be obtained from the Department of Justice. Application forms are available on NI Direct at www.nidirect.gov.uk/fireworks. A list of registered fireworks retailers is also available on the website.
"I would ask all residents in Newry to help us tackle illegal firework use. If you observe people using fireworks and believe it to be illegal or if you are aware of the illegal sale or purchase of fireworks contact police at Ardmore through the normal telephone number on 0845 600 8000.
"Fireworks are extremely dangerous to both the user and the victim when used inappropriately. Young persons have suffered serious injury from the inappropriate use of fireworks in the last couple of years locally.I would appeal to parents not to purchase illegal fireworks and to reinforce the personal safety message associated with use of legal fireworks.
"Anyone with information about this recent incident should contact the Neighbourhood Policing Team
