A statement issued by the St Helen Fireworks Society claimed the application is being opposed by one or more individuals even though the distance between the place where the fireworks are let off from the Tar-Raddiena area and the nearby inhabited area is within the legal limit.

The society also claimed that although it has the usual insurance cover, this year they are also being asked to make good for any damages that might be sustained. The society said that once it had abided by all the usual procedures and obligations, there was no need to introduce new obligations.

If the permit is not issued all the fireworks manufactured over the past months by so many festa volunteers and paid for by donations from the public, cannot be let off.

Finally, the society is inviting people and associations from all over Birkirkara to an open day which is being held next Sunday between 8.30am and noon so that people can see what fireworks have been prepared for this year’s festa.