New year fireworks cause a record number of eye injuries

At least 187 people sustained eye injuries during New Year celebrations on December 31, marking the highest total in a decade, according to the Dutch eye experts association.

Half of the victims were children, and one in three has suffered permanent damage. In total, 15 individuals lost an eye.

Approximately 40% of those injured were bystanders uninvolved in setting off fireworks and at least 8% of the fireworks responsible for the injuries were illegal in the Netherlands.

Eye specialists have repeatedly urged the government to ban consumer fireworks entirely. While 19 towns and cities imposed local restrictions this year, the bans were widely flouted.

The government has stated it has no plans to introduce a nationwide ban on fireworks but MPs are expected to push through a vote on the issue.

Definitive figures, including the number of individuals who have permanently lost sight in one eye, are expected to be released in April.