Knife crime legislation
Deputy O'Sullivan raises knife crime, cites the Jennie Poole case, and asks what the Government will do with forthcoming legislation. The Tánaiste says the Government is concerned, has not yet seen the Bill, and will consider it when published.
I raise with the Tánaiste the issue of knife crime. Recently, not only in Dublin but right across the country, we have had a number of incidents that have led to a number of deaths. Last year, a number of colleagues and friends of mine in the Fianna Fáil Party met the family of Jennie Poole, whose case is well-documented. My friend, Deputy Jim O'Callaghan, is bringing forward legislation to combat the issue of knife crime. What does the Government intend to do with that legislation?
Comment on this
I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. The Government is very concerned about incidents of knife crime in Ireland. I am aware of the sad case of Jennie Poole and extend my condolences to her family and friends. As a member of the Government, I have not seen that legislation yet. I am not sure what its status is or whether it has been published. I do not think it has been published yet, but once the Government sees it, we will be able to give it consideration. We are certainly happy to take on board any helpful suggestions that might help us tackle this problem.