Gharb Council to hold referendum on application for new fireworks factory

Gharb local council said today that it would hold a referendum for the people of the village to voice their opinion on whether or not to back an application by the village festivities committee for the building of a fireworks factory close to the site where another, privately-owned, factory blew up yesterday.

The council said that it could not take a position on the issue because some of its members had a conflict of interest. The issue, it said, had been discussed with the Department of Local Councils. The council was advised that while it could not take a decision because of conflicts of interest, it could raise concerns such as about the distance between the proposed fireworks factory and residences.

The council said it had therefore decided to hold the referendum.

The council said that with regard to existing fireworks factories, it was insisting that the authorities should enforce strict measures on how they operated and what materials were used, so as to ensure safety.

The council expressed its sorrow at the loss of life in yesterday's explosion and said it had discussed property damages suffered by residents. It would consider further assistance through its legal adviser.

The council also thanked the police and the Civil Protection Department for its assistance yesterday.