Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick has pressed the Scottish Government to speed up the implementation of new fireworks laws, warning that delays are prolonging “unacceptable risk” to animal welfare. Speaking in Parliament, Ms Roddick highlighted concerns from animal welfare charities and the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) about the severe distress that fireworks cause to pets, livestock, and wildlife across the region.
Key measures from the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022, like a licensing scheme and restrictions on sales and usage days, have yet to be implemented three years after the Act was passed. The delay has been noted by the SAWC, which fears it will prolong the period of unacceptable risk. Emma Roddick is supporting SAWC’s campaign for the early implementation of licensing and restrictions on when fireworks can be used and sold.
The SNP MSP said:
“I’ve heard directly from constituents who are desperately worried about their pets, their livestock, and the local wildlife. The Fireworks Act was supposed to bring in greater controls, yet we’re heading into a crucial time of year with a key part of that legislation delayed.
“Many enjoy fireworks and will still be able to do so when this legislation is fully implemented, but it will be much easier for pet owners and farmers to plan around the impact of fireworks if they can have confidence in the days that these will be set off. At the moment, many of us are finding that fireworks are set off unexpectedly for weeks before the 5th.
“The Scottish Government must act quickly to implement the licensing scheme and restrictions on usage days, and I will continue to make that point. Animals shouldn’t have to suffer prolonged and entirely avoidable distress.”
