Greens renew call for fireworks sales ban after emergency workers injured and police van set alight
The Scottish Greens have renewed their call for a ban on private firework sales after a police officer and an ambulance worker suffered injuries and a police van was set alight in Glasgow on Bonfire Night.
Police Scotland said both crews were attacked with fireworks as they responded to reports of an injured man in Greenside Street. Officers were also targeted in Edinburgh and Clydebank, and firefighters came under attack in several parts of Scotland.
Police Scotland received 1,024 fireworks-related calls between Halloween and Bonfire Night, up from 833 last year. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service received more than 1,172 calls relating to fireworks and bonfires between 17:30 and 23:30 and attended more than 767 incidents.
Scottish Greens spokesperson for Justice, Maggie Chapman MSP said
“We have long warned that fireworks are being too easily bought and too often misused. Last night, two emergency workers had been injured and a police van had been set alight. It should never take another night like this for ministers to act.
“The crews in Glasgow were there to help injured people. They should never have had to fear being attacked themselves while doing their vital work.
“I wish workers and members of the public a full recovery and thank the emergency crews who worked through the night to keep people safe. We should all recognise and applaud their commitment to their roles and their bravery for doing what they do despite the dangers they faced.”
Maggie added:
“We know what happens when fireworks are so widely available. These explosives are thrown at people in the street, they terrify pets and wildlife, and they leave people who are sensitive to sudden loud bangs dreading this time of year. Communities shouldn’t have to put up with this every November and then face it all again at Hogmanay.
“As technology moves on and transforms our daily lives, fireworks should be included in that too. Well-managed community displays, with low-noise fireworks or light displays wherever possible, would go a long way to combatting the dangers fireworks bring.
“Instead of warm words every year about how anti-social behaviour is unacceptable, the Scottish Government must take action and press UK ministers to end sales to the general public, as a matter of public safety, as a matter of urgency. Last night showed exactly why it can’t wait another year.”