A heated debate erupted in the House legal committee on Wednesday over proposed legislation regulating Easter bonfires, as authorities seek to enforce stricter safety measures ahead of the holiday.

The justice minister has called on local councils and communities to take responsibility for granting fire permits – an approach currently applied in exceptional cases. However, representatives of the Union of Municipalities rejected the proposal, arguing that local authorities cannot bear such a major responsibility.

The proposed law does not override existing fire regulations but introduces a structured permit system. Under the bill, bonfires for the traditional Easter custom will only be allowed with official approval and under strict safety conditions. Any unauthorised fire lighting will be classified as a criminal offence.

“The principle of legality must be reinforced,” the minister stressed, warning that unregulated bonfires pose a serious threat to public safety.

Despite this, local government officials remain opposed, citing concerns over enforcement capacity and potential liabilities.

In an effort to break the deadlock, the committee chairman urged all parties to hold an emergency meeting at the justice ministry.

“If the ministry, police, and fire service can reach an agreement with municipalities, then we can fast-track the bill for parliamentary approval,” said committee chairman Nicos Tornaritis.

With Easter approaching, authorities face mounting pressure to resolve the issue before uncontrolled bonfires become a public hazard.