Make safety a priority this Halloween – Byrne

Take care to avoid harm or injury by steering clear of bonfires and fireworks this weekend, a Fine Gael Minister has said.

Speaking ahead of the holiday weekend, Fine Gael TD for Dublin South Central and Minister of State for Health Promotion, Catherine Byrne said: “Everyone is looking forward to the Bank Holiday weekend and I know Halloween is a time of fun and enjoyment for the whole community.

“However I urge everyone to stay safe this weekend. Unfortunately Halloween brings additional risks with illegal bonfires and the use of illegal fireworks. I urge people to enjoy festivities without engaging in this activity.

“Bonfires place pressure on our overburdened emergency services on a night like Halloween. Holding a bonfire could divert our fire brigades and ambulances from the people who need them most. I know that Local Authorities have been working extensively over the last few weeks to clear up stockpiled bonfire materials and I thank them for their work in this regard.

“Dublin City Council removed in excess of 420 tonnes of bonfire materials during the Halloween period in 2016, so we can see how prevalent this problem is.

“I am also pleading with people to refrain from using fireworks this Halloween. Unfortunately the Emergency Departments in our hospitals have had to deal with many serious injuries over the last number of years, as caused by fireworks. No one wants to see their child hurt this weekend.

“I wish everyone a very happy Halloween and I hope that people all over the country enjoy the long weekend. Local Authorities all over the country have organised community events, and it is a great time to get out and about with the family and enjoy the festivities.”