asked the Minister for Justice the action he intends to take in relation to the free sale in this country of a sling-shot toy, the arrival of which in this country was recently reported extensively in the media; whether he is satisfied with the easy availability of such a weapon; and the steps he has taken or intends to take in that respect.
Written Answers. - Sale of Sling-shot Toy.
967.
While the law contains restrictions on the sale or possession of firearms, it does not apply itself directly to the sale or possession of many other items that could in certain circumstances be misused, through negligence or otherwise, such as catapults, sling-shots, cross-bows or even knives, though of course the carrying of an offensive weapon by a person intending to commit a felony is an offence.
As regards sling-shots, I understand that more types than one are available in other countries but I am informed by the Garda that they have no reports that would suggest that the particular type of sling-shot that has appeared on the market here poses a serious problem. They are, however, keeping the matter under review.
The Deputy will appreciate the difficulties of legislating against specific weapons or articles which could be used offensively or dangerously but which also have legitimate or innocent uses, all the more so as new items tend to come on the market from time to time, but, when an opportunity presents itself, I propose to consider whether there should be some strengthening of the law about offensive weapons generally.