Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

Apart from the hiring of a public relations company, what other action does the Minister intend to pursue? I suggest that a comprehensive review of the availability of knives and offensive weapons is needed. A series of educational seminars should be organised to ensure that young people understand not only the dangers inherent in the use of knives, but also the fact that carrying knives can be unlawful. We need to implement a targeted six-month operation with the aim of decreasing the number of knives in the community. In light of the grave public concern that exists in this respect, it is not enough to engage in stand-alone exercises such as the hiring of a public relations company to put up posters.

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