More politicians back fireworks ban after attacks on Dutch cops & firefighters

After another New Year’s filled with attacks on first responders and millions of euros worth of damages, the CDA has thrown its support behind a ban on consumers’ fireworks. The party proposes only allowing organizations or licensed neighborhood cooperatives to set off fireworks.

“You can’t always say that you fully support our police and emergency services and then look the other way once a year,” CDA leader Henri Bontenbal said on X.

During New Year’s Eve, celebrators across the country attacked 295 police officers and 49 other first responders, ANP reported. The Dutch Association of Insurers reported in a first estimate that private individuals suffered 16 million euros worth of damage. The figure does not include medical costs and damage to companies, schools, and public property. So the total amount of damages is considerably higher.

After the New Year’s Eve celebrations, mayors from across the country again pushed for a nationwide ban on fireworks. Hospitals and the police also joined the call.

So far, only opposition parties support a ban on consumer fireworks. GroenLinks-PvdA and PvdD are working on a private members’ bill to that effect. The coalition parties PVV, VVD, NSC, and BBB have all spoken out against a ban.

The Tweede Kamer, the lower house of the Dutch Parliament will soon debate the New Year’s Eve incidents.