The Church’s Environment Commission in a statement today, welcomes the consultation document issued by MEPA on Fireworks Factory complexes, saying that it notes with satisfaction, that priority is given to the health and safety of anyone who may be involved, both directly and indirectly, in this field.

The Commission said that it agrees that all applications should be considered on its merits and not to enforce a ‘one solution for all’ on cases. However, to ensure this is not misused, and for the safety of everyone, there should be clear guidelines published governing the design, development, construction, upgrading and all matters related to the fireworks industry.

The committee should consist of experts, with a good knowledge of all aspects related to the field of pyrotechnics. Above all, the regulatory responsibility of this committee (and MEPA) does not end with the issuance of the permit. Like any other field, nothing works well without enforcement of regulations, the Environment Commission said.

It also pointed out that urgent controls are needed to be made on the supply of chemicals used in the manufacturing of fireworks, as well as in storage areas, this would not only help reduce the risk and scale of the devastation, should an accident occur, but also reduce environmental pollution and the negative impacts on health.

The Commission said that it insists on the need for formative education to help develop attitude and values, along with proper training in the handling of fireworks, which will lead to changes in the behaviour and performance of those who are granted licences. Adding that it urges the authorities concerned to factilitate agreements with the relevent organisations in this regard.

The Church’s Environment Commission concluded by saying that the consultation document was a step in the right direction.

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