In a move to combat rising concerns over knife-related offenses, Ireland has officially increased penalties for selling and carrying knives starting today. Justice Minister Helen McEntee signed a commencement order that puts these stricter measures into effect immediately.
Under the new law, maximum jail terms for several knife and offensive weapons offenses have been raised. Three offenses now carry a maximum sentence of seven years, up from five:
- Possessing a knife or weapon in public with intent to harm
- Trespassing while carrying a knife or sharp object
- Producing an article capable of causing serious injury
Additionally, the penalty for manufacturing, importing, selling, hiring, or loaning prescribed offensive weapons has been increased from 7 to 10 years.
Minister McEntee stated that these harsher penalties will “help to keep knives and other offensive weapons off the streets.” She emphasized that the changes reflect the seriousness of these crimes and will allow courts to impose appropriate sanctions in severe cases.
The amendments stem from recommendations made by the knife crime sub-group of the Expert Forum on Anti-Social Behaviour, chaired by Minister of State James Browne.
These latest increases follow earlier changes by McEntee, including doubling the maximum sentence for assault causing harm and increasing penalties for conspiracy to murder and assaulting peace officers.
According to The Journal, these new measures are part of a broader government strategy to address knife crime and improve public safety across Ireland.