What is particularly worrying, however, is that incidents of such a nature appear to be on the increase in Derry.

Already this year, a number of people have lost their lives as a result of stabbing incidents.

Some argue that, as a result of the "Troubles", a culture of casual violence is now regarded as normal.

If this is, indeed, the case, then it is vital that we create a counter-culture in which violence of any sort is regarded as being anti-social and totally unacceptable.

Indeed, a "zero-tolerance" policy is required to combat the knife craze before it is allowed to spiral out of control.

In wider terms, the increasing number of knife incidents must be properly addressed by the authorities.

Carrying a knife is a serious offence and anyone who wields such a weapon in a public place needs to know that they face the prospect of a jail term.

Knives can cause death and serious injury and everything possible must be done to restrict their use.