On Saturday night/early Sunday morning on June 11/12, the residents in Qawra were woken up at 1 a.m. by very loud fireworks that went on for a good few minutes, followed by the debris hitting the roof and gardens. The fireworks were set off in the quiet of the night by the Dolmen Hotel. This was confirmed by the duty officer at Qawra police station.

This was a rude awakening and a frightening experience for the local residents and as soon as one ventured outside one could see that most house lights were switched on, children were crying, dogs barking and people were out on their balconies asking each other what had caused the explosions.

One could understand if this were a special occasion and some licensed fireworks were let off not later than 11 p.m., but to ignite them at 1 a.m. in such a populated area was totally irresponsible. To call this incident irresponsible or abusive would be an understatement!

This area has a lot to put up with, including very loud music from various events, which makes the lives of the locals already unbearable as their houses vibrate to the music on most Saturday nights, Sunday afternoons and festas, and this is in addition to the number of intoxicated youngsters roaming the streets shouting and fighting.

I feel that unless the appropriate action is taken, and with summer looming, we will be tormented further by the might which in this country has always proven to be right.

We just have to wait and see what action, if any, will be forthcoming!