| The appeal comes less than 24 hours after the Tele revealed Tayside Fire and Rescue, the police and Dundee City Council are to mount a three-pronged crackdown on the misuse of fireworks.
Mr FitzPatrick slammed their irresponsible use after Kirkton residents complained of noise at night in Helmsdale Drive and Helmsdale Place on Saturday and Sunday.
“There should be no sales of fireworks before October 15, according to the voluntary code established in the city after years of pressure by local politicians,” he said.
“The situation last year was much improved, but I hope we are not going to be seeing more anti-social fireworks mayhem this year. Someone must know who has obtained the fireworks and where they were obtained from.”
Fireworks officially go on sale on October 15 at 19 retailers across Dundee.
In 2005, the then Councillor FitzPatrick and Dundee East SNP MSP Shona Robison campaigned against an “irresponsible” half-price firework promotion by a retail chain’s outlet.
The duo had also drawn attention to early sales of fireworks at another retailer’s branches.
“In previous years, we have seen complete mayhem, with fireworks going off at all hours,” said Ms Robison.
“We will continue to act on irresponsible use of fireworks, which is a blight on the lives of the vast majority of the population and particularly affects pet owners.
“Although I think the situation has improved, we must be vigilant.”
Regulations introduced in 2004 have seen a ban on buying the noisiest and most powerful fireworks, curfew regulations making it illegal to set off fireworks after midnight, and a ban on their sale to under-18’s.
Other regulations include the banning of carrying Category Four fireworks used for public displays, and under-18s possessing fireworks in a public place.
Fire and Rescue, Tayside Police and the council will be working together as November 5 approaches.
The campaign will focus on reducing the number of unauthorised bonfires and fireworks offences in city areas that have historically caused concern.
A Scottish Grocers Federation spokesman says the organisation takes a firm line with rogue retailers and it has called for robust enforcement of the law.
“Retailers should live up to their responsibilities and the community needs to support retailers by carrying proof of age identification,” he said.
Asda’s Milton of Craigie and Kirkton stores, and Woolworths, in the Wellgate, will be selling fireworks from October 15 to November 10. They will train staff and use till prompts to remind them of the restrictions. |
