Two Maltese Members of the European Parliament, Alex Agius Saliba and Peter Agius, have spoken out against calls by certain European activists for the European Union to intervene in Malta’s fireworks sector.
Alex Agius Saliba revealed that pressure is being exerted by “a number of European activists” who are seeking to stop the production and use of fireworks across Europe. He said he had already made it clear, following an email sent to Maltese MEPs by a foreign activist, that the European Union “has no competence in this regard.” He added that he would continue defending Malta’s traditions, stating that “when it comes to our culture and identity, there is no room for compromise.”
Meanwhile, Peter Agius addressed concerns raised by Vice-President Stefanatu regarding fireworks. In a letter, he described fireworks as “an integral part of Malta’s cultural identity” and noted that they are central to Maltese religious feasts.
Agius also highlighted that the manufacture, storage, transportation and use of fireworks are already governed by a strict legal framework under Maltese law. Referring to the recent Magħtab incident, he said ongoing investigations should determine what occurred and help identify any necessary improvements.
He argued that, rather than imposing a ban, efforts should focus on understanding “where the rules have failed to secure the safety which we all expect in this important cultural activity.”
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