DEAR Editor,-
Although from Port Edward I would like to respond to all the offended Hindu letter writers who inevitably pull the race/religion card, complaining re the banning of fireworks in Umtentweni while failing to understand the facts of the matter.
Fireworks were banned in Port Edward two years ago by the then committee of the ratepayers association – I don’t remember any fuss being made of this as, although much canvassing was done around the town as well as large signs being erected, it made not the slightest bit of difference to the Hindu community or the residents of Port Edward.
There is an Hibiscus Coast Municipality by-law prohibiting the use of fireworks as well as the sale of same without the correct permit being arranged from the police. With regard to stocking and selling of fireworks, the law is most stringent regarding the safety of the storage area etc.
Needless to say that without the by-laws being enforced no one took or takes the slightest bit of notice of the banning order and carried on as per their own selfishness.
No, Mr and Mrs Hindu, it is nothing to do with race, colour or creed but all to do with the welfare of the animals, both domestic and wild, the fish in the sea, and the birds of the air and not forgetting the little ‘old ladies’.
Your Diwali is a Festival of Light – why must it be accompanied by noise?
JUDITH A ARMSTRONG
Port Edward
