The more powerful the blast

The recent fireworks disaster at Naxxar shocked the nation. The sheer disregard shown towards the safety of others by so-called fireworks enthusiasts knows no bounds.

Since then, a number of persons were arraigned over the illegal storage of fireworks, mostly in inhabited areas. While admitting I am no legal beagle, to my and other people's minds, the penalties meted out by the courts, a few hundred euros, seem to be derisory. I very much fear that this will not serve as an effective deterrent and the disaster at Naxxar could be repeated.

Over the years, the constant number of deaths of fireworks enthusiasts has not served to ameliorate matters. Rather, we are now seeing innocent victims suffering at the hands of irresponsible persons.

It is obvious that laws must be updated and applied effectively. Perhaps the new Minister of Justice and Home Affairs will be in the forefront to defend the right to life of those already living. Unfortunately, the previous occupier seemed more intent on protecting the right to life of the unborn, commendable as it may be.

It was reported that, as yet unpublished recommendations, have not been taken on board by the authorities. It also appears that Church authorities, who descended like a ton of bricks on organisers of band marches, have not yet found the courage to speak up about the inordinately high number of deaths.

The attendance of prominent persons at fireworks disaster sites seems more of a photo oppurtunity than a spur towards defending human lives. The fireworks lobby is very powerful and the authorities seem unable to stand up to it. It is remarkable how, even opinion formers who pepper newspapers with their views on anything under the sun, seem reluctant to broach the subject. In fact, only one renowned female columnist seems to have taken up this challenge.

So, will someone try to introduce legislation to safeguard the right to life of the common people? Or, as in other controversial subjects, shall we bury our heads in the sand ?

Editorial note: This letter was written before the announcement that harsher penalities are being contemplated.