Ministers Revoke Fireworks Permits Amid Fire Investigations

Revisiting Fireworks Regulations After Recent Fires

In the wake of the recent large fires near Limassol and Paphos, which were attributed to explosives and fireworks, a significant move has been made by the government to reassess the regulations surrounding fireworks usage. Agriculture and Justice Ministers Maria Panayiotou and Marios Hartsiotis convened with police force representatives to discuss potential improvements to the current legal framework.

Minister Panayiotou has taken decisive action with the revocation of permits for fireworks as a precautionary measure. This step has been taken to allow a thorough investigation into fires that have been linked to the use of fireworks. When pressed by journalists on whether this revocation would be a lasting measure, Panayiotou clarified that the permits in question are specifically for ground-launched fireworks, which now require a special permit due to their potential to ignite fires.

The ministers and police representatives plan to engage with other key stakeholders in the coming days to scrutinize the entire spectrum of fireworks deployment. Their aim is to reinforce the regulations and ensure that any future fireworks usage does not pose a similar threat.

Concerning the recent blaze near Limassol, Panayiotou informed that the investigation into the causes of the fire is still in progress. She assured that further statements would be made once the investigation has reached its conclusion, maintaining transparency with the public on this critical issue.

The discussions and measures taken reflect the government’s proactive stance in managing fire risks associated with fireworks. The outcome of these deliberations could lead to tighter controls and safer practices for fireworks usage in the future.