Many Dutch border municipalities doubt the new fireworks ban will work as planned. Their worry is simple: residents can just drive across the border to Germany or Belgium, where fireworks are still sold legally. A recent survey of local authorities shows how widespread the concern is, and it comes at a time when experts already expect a wave of fireworks tourism this year. Neighboring countries could see plenty of Dutch visitors heading over to stock up before New Year's Eve.
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Mayors Warn of Enforcement Trouble
Back in early July, the mayors of 26 Limburg municipalities sent an urgent letter to the Minister of Justice and Security and the state secretary of Infrastructure and Water Management. They said they expect serious problems when it comes to enforcing the ban. The same municipalities have also made clear they do not plan to hand out any fireworks exemptions for the New Year's celebrations.
Jaap Kuin, the mayor of Pekela, says he is realistic about what lies ahead. The police have promised strict border checks, and they plan to look more closely at smaller roads too. Even so, he believes people will keep looking for ways around the controls.
Kuin has also been talking about the issue at local youth centers. His message to young people is that setting off banned fireworks carries real financial risks. If something gets damaged, insurers will work hard to find out who is to blame.
He compares the situation to dog owners who leave their pet's mess behind. You have to catch people in the act, and that is not easy in a wide, spread-out area. The number of officers has not suddenly gone up, he points out, and residents know the odds of being caught are low.
Groningen Voices the Same Concern
Roelien Kamminga, the mayor of Groningen, shares the worry. She also chairs the Governance and Safety committee of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities,.
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