TO THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH, SOCIAL SERVICES AND PUBLIC SAFETY

(MICHAEL MCGIMPSEY)

Mr McClarty: I thank the Minister for his response. It is reassuring to know that the Minister and his Department take a proactive approach in tackling what is an important matter. In launching the fireworks-safety campaign, will the Minister ensure that the key messages from that campaign continue after Halloween so that people are continually made aware of the real dangers that fireworks pose?

Mr McGimpsey: It is important that the message is not simply lost after Halloween. People are injured year on year.

The introduction of licensing for the sale and use of fireworks in 2002 led to a significant reduction in injuries. However, since then, there has been a steady annual increase in the number of injuries. Therefore, the Depart­ment cannot afford to be complacent and the message must resound every year and throughout the year.

Mr Burns: Given the health risks associated with the burning of toxic materials on bonfires, why was the Department not represented on the inter-agency working group on bonfires that was set up in 2003?

Mr McGimpsey: The inter-agency approach was an initiative that was inspired by local government. I was involved in that as a member of Belfast City Council, and several Members were similarly involved. The issue requires the involvement of agencies and communities because, as the Member is aware, bonfires are an important part of a tradition in Northern Ireland. Therefore, the safe application of that tradition, ensuring that toxic materials are not burned, is a matter for everyone.