Newstalk Breakfast Newstalk Breakfast

The scourge of illegal fireworks

Oct 22, 2026 · 4m

Summary

Newstalk Breakfast investigates the surge in illegal fireworks sales in Ireland as Halloween approaches. Reporter Bybra Holmes explores how consumers access these banned items via social media and cross-border purchases from Northern Ireland, where strict licensing regulations apply. The report highlights the logistical hurdles and police crackdowns at the border, while Justice Minister Jim McCallaghan emphasizes the severe, life-changing injuries caused by their misuse.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Buena Park Pumpkin Patch Intro: Illegal fireworks in Dublin Street interviews on Henry Street Northern Ireland licensing regulations Fireworks shops in County Armagh Shops on Dublin Road and product range The legal purchasing process Illegal imports and Minister McCallaghan Dangers and injuries from fireworks Outro: News Talk Breakfast
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