The maximum prison term for those carrying knives in public or schools is to double to four years, the Northern Ireland Office said today.
Changes include the same potential penalty for the illegal manufacture and sale of blades.
There will be a presumption in favour of prosecuting for those caught with or using the weapon in a public place. Security minister Paul Goggins said: “Protecting the public remains at the forefront of these further reforms.
“These new powers send out a clear message that society will not tolerate those who continue to break the law and make life intolerable for their communities.”
Over 450 young people were threatened and injured with knives in the last five years, just over 100 in the past 12 months, in Northern Ireland.
The re-launch of the PSNI’s knife campaign is scheduled for early next week. The minister has asked the Prison Service, the Probation Board and the Youth Justice Agency to evaluate what further interventions with young people might contribute to a reduction in knife crime.
Other measures to be implemented for sex offenders who breach their licence conditions may include having their licences revoked and serving the remainder of their licence period in custody.
PA