Alliance calls for crackdown on knife culture

4.21.12pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 19th Jul 2006

Alliance Justice Spokesperson, Cllr Stephen Farry

Alliance Party Justice Spokesperson, Cllr Stephen Farry, has called for strong sentences to combat knife culture in Northern Ireland. His comments come on the day that Criminal Justice Minister, David Hanson, launched a consultation on knife crime.

Cllr Farry stated: "The problem of knife crime is one that must be addressed swiftly by government. Severe sentences must be given to knife crime offenders, to act as a strong deterrent to those who might consider carrying knives.

"I would appeal to people to engage in the anti-knife crime consultation, to ensure that the laws which will be passed are effective in preventing this type of criminal activity.

"Knife crime is a serious problem, which if left ignored could increase dramatically, therefore I call on government to implement stringent legislation on this issue."

ENDS