Abstract: The invention provides a method for the initiation of blasting. The method comprises the steps of initiating a detonation in an initial shock robe and causing the detonation to propagate along the interior of the shock robe. The detonation in the initial shock tube initiates a detonation in a high explosive charge in a connection device whereby the shock tube is connected to a plurality of further shock tubes. The detonation of the high explosive charge acts to transfer the detonation from the initial shock tube to the further shock tubes to initiate detonations therein. The transfer of the detonations from the initial shock tube to the further shock tubes is effected in a direction which is radial relative to the initial shock tube and radial relative to the further shock tube. The invention also provides a system for the initiation of blasting.