As preparations for the Halloween festivities continue, Gardaí are advising people to be safe and sensible.
Gardaí across the country will be working hard to keep people safe during this period.
To ensure that you, your family, friends and neighbours have a safe Halloween Gardaí are reminding the public that fireworks are illegal.
It is also illegal to buy, use, possess or ignite fireworks without a licence.
Unregulated fireworks lack standard safety controls and can cause severe injuries to children.
With regard to trick or treating, Gardaí are asking people be mindful and respectful that not everyone in our community will be participating.
Children should always be accompanied by an adult when trick or treating which should only be done lit up areas or otherwise ensure that you are highly visible to road users.
Gardaí area also asking anyone who spots illegal waste collection or dangerous bonfires, to contact the Clare County Council Waste Enforcement Team on 065 6846331.
Operation Tombola
The Emergency Services including An Garda Síochána, Clare County Fire and Rescue Service, National Ambulance Service and the Department of Environment are working hard to keep our communities in Clare safe.
The main objectives of Operation Tombola are to address anti-social behaviour, detect the sale, distribution and use of illegal fireworks and support communities in delivering a safe and enjoyable Halloween celebration.
Fireworks Offences
Fireworks are illegal. Fireworks in the wrong hands can be lethal, resulting in serious injuries and damage to property.
The main offences relating to fireworks are:
– To ignite a firework or cause it to be ignited;
– Throw, direct or propel an ignited firework towards a person or property;
– Possession of fireworks with intent to sell or supply it to another person.
Penalties
The penalties on conviction for firework offences are:
– At the District Court – Fine up to €2500 and / or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months; or
– in the Circuit Court – Fine up to €10,000 and / or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years.
Contact Information
If you have any concerns or any information in relation to fireworks or any other information which you believe would support us in keeping your community safe, please contact your local Garda station or the Community Policing team at Ennis Garda Station by email or contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.