Not enough MPs will back a total New Year firework ban

There is no majority in parliament for a total ban on consumer fireworks and efforts by GroenLinks and the pro-animal PvdD will fail when voted on next week, it emerged after Wednesday’s debate on the issue.

The two parties say the advantages of the New Year festivities – the only time consumers can set off fireworks – no longer outweigh the disadvantages, such as the personal injuries, damage to property and distress caused to pets and wildlife.

However, with two coalition parties – the VVD and CDA – opposed to a total ban along with the far right and the SP, there is not enough support in parliament to bring in the measure.

Fireworks were banned last New Year because of the coronavirus restrictions but the ban was widely flouted. Some €10m worth of damage was caused to private property during the celebrations, due to both vandalism and fireworks and this, insurance companies say, is similar to years without coronavirus measures or a firework ban.

Large fireworks have already been banned and some MPs say they want to see how a ‘normal’ New Year proceeds without them before taking further action.

In addition, banning the sale of fireworks to private individuals will not help deal with illegal fireworks or ‘young men who can’t control themselves’, according to the SP.

The debate will continue next week, when the formal vote will also take place.