To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of whether local councils have adequate powers to investigate, and take enforcement action, against retailers who sell fireworks illegally without the appropriate licence.

The Department of Justice is responsible for the control of fireworks in Northern Ireland and has a service level agreement in place with each local Council. Council Environmental Health Officers are warranted by my department, under the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978, and can carry out enforcement activity associated with fireworks retailing, consistent with the council’s enforcement policy, and in accordance with any instructions from my Department. Council officers work closely with my Department and the PSNI to ensure appropriate enforcement action against retailers who sell fireworks illegally.