OneKind welcomes the Scottish Government’s consideration of tighter regulations for firework displays

Animal Welfare Charity welcomes the Scottish Government’s consideration of tighter regulations for firework displays.

Leading animal welfare campaigning charity welcomes the Scottish Government’s actions to promote the safe and appropriate use of fireworks in Scotland, highlighting animal welfare as a top concern.

Today the Scottish Government announced its publication of its Action Plan to promote the safe and appropriate use of fireworks in Scotland and the establishment of a Fireworks Review Group, that will consider how the current legislation around where and when fireworks can be used can be tightened.

OneKind Director, Bob Elliot, said:

‘’We are delighted that the Scottish Government has listened to the 92% of those that responded to its fireworks consultation in favour of tighter controls surrounding the use of fireworks.

‘’The noise of fireworks can be a real source of fear, distress and injury for not only pets, but all kinds of animals, including birds, zoo animals, livestock and wild animals. It can be particularly distressing when fireworks are set off unexpectedly, as those caring for animals are unable take steps in advance to reduce the distress caused, such as keeping their animals indoors during the display.

‘’We also welcome proposals for the new Fireworks Review Group to consider the introduction of no firework zones, the restriction on the use of fireworks in private properties and to tighten the dates and times that fireworks can be detonated.

‘’Our supporters have shared stories of their animals’ panting, shaking and pacing and being too terrified to go outside even after the fireworks have stopped. One supporter even has to find isolated accommodation for Bonfire Night each year as her 11-yearold dog is so terrified of the noises. She stresses, though, that even then she can’t protect her dog against fireworks as displays go on for days before and after the 5th of November.

‘’We also heard from someone who had rescued a hen just a few weeks ago, the bird suddenly died during last night. It is strongly suspected that the hen died due to stress caused by fireworks at a neighbouring property.

‘’We appreciate that the sale of fireworks is not a devolved issue, and so look forward to Westminster’s response to the possibility of making this a devolved matter and the potential of tighter restrictions on sales, something overwhelmingly supported by the Scottish public and could be a real benefit for Scotland’s animals.’’