Firecrackers ban not supported by Dutch parliament

It seems unlikely that a plan to ban firecrackers before New Year's will be implemented. A majority in parliament is against the plan, doubting how effective it will be in reducing the number of fireworks incidents in the Netherlands every New Year's, NOS reports after speaking with sources around the government.

Except for the ChristenUnie, not one of the government parties is enthusiastic about banning the sale of firecrackers. Behind the scenes, the coalition parties discussed the ban with the two responsible Ministers - Ingrid van Engelshoven of Education, Culture and Science, which includes Environment, and Ferdinand Grapperhaus of Justice and Security - on Wednesday. They agreed that the government will have to think further about a better plan, according to the broadcaster.

The government has been trying for months to come up with a response to the Dutch Safety Board's advice to ban crackers and rocket type fireworks. According to the Safety Board, these types of fireworks cause the most injuries and damages every New Year's.

The coalition parties realize that measures must be taken to reduce the number of firework related incidents. According to the broadcaster, they're considering harsher action against illegal fireworks, stricter safety requirements, and giving municipalities more space to implement firework free zones. But a national ban is off the table.

The government has until end May to come up with a plan.