New anti-blades blitz on way
Russell Steele • Published 19 Nov 2010 14:00
A FRESH anti-knives push is set to get under way across Inverclyde next year.
The pledge came as the Scottish Government revealed its No Knives Better Lives campaign will continue, following claims the groundbreaking scheme could be facing an uncertain future.
Local MSP Duncan McNeil had voiced concerns that no commitment had been made to keep the initiative going beyond March.
But the Scottish Government today dismissed those fears - and said the crackdown will continue.
A spokesman said: "In 2011, we will be beginning a fresh push in Inverclyde to continue to get across the message about the dangers of knives, and we are funding new advertising depicting the choice between 'knife or life' that young people may face.
"This advertising will be placed around the region in addition to public reassurance messages about the 35 per cent reduction in knife carrying in the area."
It was recently revealed the No Knives, Better Lives scheme, which was piloted in Inverclyde, reduced knife carrying by 35 per cent.
The initiative was brought in after a high-profile campaign led by the Tele and anti-blade battler John Muir, whose son, Damian, was stabbed to death in 2007.
A Scottish Government spokesman said: "This has been a really successful partnership between the Scottish Government, Inverclyde community, campaigners such as John Muir, and the local council, bringing a 35 per cent reduction in knife carrying.
"We will continue to support all existing No Knives, Better Lives areas as well as supporting roll out into new areas across Scotland in 2011/12.
"This will include financial support."
An initial total of £200,000 was spent on the Inverclyde pilot and the remaining £300,000 was invested across six council areas, including Inverclyde.
Until finance secretary John Swinney's budget is agreed in February, no specific figures are available for the amount which will be spent locally next year.
Mr McNeil, who wrote to Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill seeking assurances over the scheme's future, said: "Everyone involved in the fight against knife crime agrees early prevention and educational work is vital - but it can't be done on the cheap.
"The SNP Government must show they are serious and consistent about this issue by ensuring young people learn about the dangers of carrying a knife."
This article appeared in Greenock Telegraph 19 Nov 10
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