Inadequate fines for illegal fireworks

It is obvious that the existing fines for illegally manufacturing and storing fireworks are not adequate. The fines being imposed for these incidents are obviously not a deterrent.

The law needs to be changed to make it a criminal offence to manufacture and store illegal fireworks. The offence should carry a mandatory minimum jail sentence of five years or more and the fines should be substantial. Those responsible for incidents such as the recent explosion in Naxxar should be charged with murder or manslaughter at a minimum. Only then will these irresponsible individuals get the message.

Manufacturing and storing fireworks should be restricted to industrial or better still remote areas in order to minimise property damage and loss of life in case of accidents.

The industry should be closely regulated and monitored and regular inspection by qualified personnel should be mandated. Malta is no longer living in the 1940s when no one knew better, although sometimes it seems like time has stood still in Malta. It's up to the government to step up and enact the necessary legislation to stop this madness.