Fireworks have long been banned in Nanaimo but continued to cause disturbances in the area. (Pixabay)

By Ian Holmes

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RDN to investigate fireworks restrictions following fiery debate

May 26, 2021 | 5:29 AM

NANAIMO — RDN staff will look into potential restrictions on the sale and use of fireworks in the rural areas without existing bans on the loud attractions.

RDN directors engaged in a fiery debate on the subject during their regular board meeting held virtually on Tuesday, May 25, voting 10-9 to take a closer look at restrictions.

Parksville director Adam Fras spoke in favour of exploring ways to lessen the negative impacts of fireworks, such as making them less easily accessible.

“I think if we take it out of the impulse aisle…we’ll see a great reduction in the discharge of them as a by-product of that.”

Fras said fireworks commonly go off in Parksville, which can’t be purchased in the city but are widely available nearby.

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Debate on the issue was split, with naysayers arguing it’s almost impossible to hold people accountable for illegally lighting off fireworks.

Parksville director Ed Mayne said there was little point in advancing the issue.

“If you’re not going to make a law that’s enforceable why are making the law? We’re wasting our time,” Mayne said.

Most communities have bylaws banning the sale and use of fireworks, however Nanaimo director Sheryl Armstrong noted the practice can’t enforced effectively by local government or police resources.

“Right now the City of Nanaimo does have the bylaw where sales and discharge are prohibited, yet we have a major issue here,” the retired RCMP officer said.

Armstrong said fireworks available for sale online is a major challenge to any restrictions.

Federal government certification is not required for the personal use of fireworks, while Natural Resources Canada requires certification for more advanced display and special effect pyrotechnics.

BC SPCA representative Alison Cuffley presented to the board multiple adverse effects fireworks have on wild and domestic animals.

She said spooked pets running into traffic and normally friendly dogs acting out of character are among numerous implications fireworks have on animals.

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes