OFT to Ban Sale of Sky Lanterns

The Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading (OFT) recently sought the public’s view in regard to its proposal to introduce Regulations prohibiting the sale of sky lanterns in the Isle of Man.

Chairman of the OFT, David Quirk MHK says 'We were pleased with the level of response to our recent consultation in relation to prohibiting the sale of sky lanterns and have taken the public’s views on board.

The overall majority (79%) of those who responded agreed with the view that sky lanterns can pose a risk to public safety and that a ban on the sale of sky lanterns was a good first step to ensuring this risk could be reduced.

The OFT now plans to introduce safety Regulations in October’s sitting of Tynwald, and if approved, the ban on sales in the Island would be immediate'.

The OFT does recognise however that in order for risk to be minimised further, a ban on importation and use would need to be introduced. It has therefore asked the Department of Home Affairs to look to introduce the necessary primary legislation within 3 years.

Mr Quirk added 'Whilst we are happy to assist our colleagues at the Department of Home Affairs, the ban on sale is limited in its effect. The consultation revealed strong support for a total ban covering the sale, importation and use of sky lanterns, and our Regulations will give DHA time to put the necessary legislation in place'.

The consultation summary document can be found on the OFT website at: -

http://www.gov.im/oft/ConsultationDetail.gov?id=504