Wake-up call on fireworks industry (2)

A number of points arise out of the most recent fireworks tragedy.

Firstly, what health and safety rules are required in order for a permit to be given, if any. And has anybody ever checked to see if such rules, if there are any, are being observed?

Secondly, what are the exact criteria with regard to location of a fireworks factory in relation to public roads and residences?

There was quite a hoo-haa when the authorities closed St Catherine's Road to all but farmers, residents and fireworks factory workers some years ago. It transpired that the decision came after discussion at Cabinet level. Wow! Hasn't Cabinet got more important things to discuss? If this is our country's leaders' sort of logic on something as simple as this, then no wonder the country is in the state it is in. Anybody in his right mind would have refrained from issuing a permit for such a dangerous pastime, especially in an inhabited area, and not restricted access. Isn't it just as dangerous to the farmers and the residents?

When sports clubs require police permits to hold events, one of the police conditions is always insurance cover. This costs the clubs thousands of liri annually. Fair enough, that's how it should be. But why is there no insurance cover required for those whose hobby is playing with dangerous fireworks, especially in inhabited areas. Another case of two weights and two measures?

And, finally, who is going to pay for the thousands of liri of damages to the houses and property of the nearby residents?

Mercifully there weren't any innocent deaths this time.