Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I assure the Deputy that I would be happy to explore all avenues. I have been in direct contact with the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Humphreys, who has responsibility for chemicals legislation and officials from my Department have been in touch with the Department of Health which has primary responsibility for poisons legislation. The Deputy mentioned a situation in the UK and I acknowledge that there has been an alarming number of acid attacks in the UK in recent years. Retailers there have been encouraged to make voluntary commitments in respect of the responsible sale of acids and corrosive substances. This voluntary commitment includes agreeing not to sell products that contain potentially harmful levels of corrosive substances to persons younger than 18 years. While not currently in place in this jurisdiction I would be keen to explore this. I would be happy to hear any suggestions the Deputy might have in respect of this. I will of course accept the primary criminal justice response in respect of this but other Departments are involved too.

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