Cllr Anthony Flynn said “This morning I was shown deeply distressing footage of a family dog suffering an anxiety-induced stroke after being terrified by fireworks set off near their home. Despite the best efforts of their owners and vets, the dog had to be put to sleep. No animal should endure that level of fear.

"Every year, fireworks also cause huge distress to residents across Northern Ireland, particularly those living with anxiety, PTSD, and other medical conditions. The unexpected explosions and constant noise can trigger panic attacks, flashbacks and sleepless nights for countless people. The current legislation, the Explosives (Fireworks) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002, has not been meaningfully reviewed in over two decades. It is failing to protect both people and animals. I am calling on the Department of Justice and the Justice Minister to urgently commission a full review of our fireworks laws, working with animal welfare groups, mental health organisations, local councils, the PSNI and the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service."

"That review must look at limiting private use, enforcing stricter sale controls, introducing low-noise fireworks as standard, and reducing the time window in which fireworks can legally be used. Fireworks may be brief entertainment for some, but for many families, they bring nights of fear, distress and, as we saw in this tragic case, heartbreak. Northern Ireland deserves laws that reflect compassion, safety, and respect for all who live here.”

ENDS

Cllr Lauren Kendall urges support for those struggling with addiction.