The Dáil is to debate new laws aimed at increasing the maximum sentence for knife crime.
At the moment, anyone caught carrying a knife with intention to harm someone can face a maximum jail term of five years.
A bill from Fianna Fáil aims to increase that sentence to ten years.
The party's justice spokesman, Jim O'Callaghan, says the maximum term should be doubled to act as a deterrent to potential criminals.
He explained: "We think that we need to send out a strong message from the Oireachtas that it is unacceptable for people to carry knives for the purpose of inflicting harm on others.
"We know from what's happening across the water - particularly in London - that unless this issue is dealt with severely at an early stage it can get out of control."
Deputy O'Callaghan added: "The number of knives seized by An garda Síochána nationwide has increased by 66% in two years.
"There is growing anecdotal evidence too to show that knives are being used in a greater number of crimes, and yet the Minister for Justice cannot provide details."
The bill is currently at the second stage in the Dáil, and will be debated again tomorrow afternoon.
