Halloween Bonfires Pilot Project

PRESS RELEASE.

Halloween Bonfires Pilot Project

The annual practice of Halloween bonfires is a cause of great concern because of the damage to open spaces and sometimes private property and the pollutants that are emitted into our environment. There is also concern about possible injury to people, especially youths and children who may receive burns from coming into contact with burning material. In South Dublin County, there are approximately 500 bonfires each year, the cost of which, in terms of finance spent on Council staff, machinery, disposal of bonfire material and reinstatement of damaged areas is so significant that it would provide an additional playground for children in the County.

For these reasons, the Council has initiated a pilot scheme aimed at reducing the numbers of bonfires this year, in Tallaght and North Clondalkin by means of an action plan. Following meetings with the Gardai, Fire Brigade, Community & Parks Department, Environmental Services, Civil Defence , Estate management, and local residents it is proposed to arrange three official organised bonfires on Halloween night, Tuesday 31^st October, two in West Tallaght (Drumcairn Avenue and Kilcarrig Close) and one in North Clondalkin (Letts Field, Neilstown Road).

In cooperation with local residents, people will be allowed to supply suitable material under supervision. The bonfires will comprise untreated timber only and material that is likely to generate atmospheric pollutants will be diverted to an appropriate alternative system of disposal.

The organised bonfires will be enclosed with barriers to prevent possible accidents. Stewarding of the event will be managed in association with local residents who will be clearly identified. The bonfires will be lit at 6.30 pm and will cease at 9.00 pm. In addition to the bonfires, there will be festive activities such as face painting, balloons, music, costume competitions and refreshments for children.

Other activities planned for Halloween, include a

• Ceili on Friday 27^th October at County Hall for secondary school students this is free of charge
• the HallowFest organised by South Dublin County Tourism. On Sunday the 29^th October, County Hall will be the venue between 2.00 pm and 5.00 pm for traditional games and acts, ending with a fireworks display.
• On Monday 30^th October a number of outdoor activities are planned between 9.30 am to 3.00 pm.
• Further information is available on the website http://www.southdublincountytourism.ie/

In regard to bonfires generally, the public are reminded that they are illegal and Council staff over the past few weeks has been collecting bonfire material from open spaces. This work will continue until Halloween and afterwards, when staff will be deployed in cleaning up the bonfire sites and reinstating the grass surface.