Warning over Lurgan fireworks display near wildlife habitat

By Q Radio News

Animal activists are warning that a jubilee fireworks display planned for Lurgan Park over the weekend could wreak havoc for wild birds who nest in the park.

The event will involve setting off fireworks from a floating platform on a lake in the park - which some fear could traumatise or even kill birds and their young who have built their nests near the illuminations.

Brendan Mullan, USPCA Chief Executive is urging Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council to rethink the event.

He said: ““Birds and their young are protected under law as outlined in legislation including the Wildlife NI Order 1985 – ‘it is an offence to disturb any wild bird…while it is building a nest or is in, on, or near a nest containing eggs or young.’ The park is a natural habitat for wildlife and this event will negatively impact any wildlife in close proximity. 

“It is our understanding that a license is required from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to hold such an event, given that it is a wild bird habitat - we would strongly urge that such a license is withheld. We also appeal to the Council to reconsider its plans for this firework display.”

(USPCA Chief Executive Brendan Mullan)