Question:
147 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is the Government's intention to prohibit the use of hand knives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6327/99]
Written Answers. - Offensive Weapons.
The Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, 1990, and the 1991 Offensive Weapons Order made under that Act, prohibit the manufacture, sale, hire or loan of a wide range of offensive weapons. The Act also provides that it is an offence to have in a public place a knife or any other article which has a blade or which is sharply pointed, unless the person has a good reason or lawful authority to have same.
Many knives and other bladed or sharply pointed articles have many and varied legitimate uses. Therefore, the question of any further prohibitions would require very careful consideration.