Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 7 September 2018
697. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Health his views on the fact that there is no regulation of tattoo and body piercing businesses here; his plans to introduce legislation to protect the health of users of these services; the reason for the delay in publishing guidelines for this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35834/18]
View answerThere is no specific legislation in Ireland in relation to the regulation of tattooing and body piercing businesses. However, they are required to comply with public health as well as health and safety legislation in the same way as any other business. In the absence of sector specific regulation, my Department and the Health Service Executive are finalising guidelines on infection control for use by the tattooing and body piercing industry. The purpose of this document is to provide guidance in relation to infection control, and is aimed at achieving the highest standards of safety and prevention. It will also provide information concerning best practice to people who are considering getting a tattoo or body piercing when choosing an operator.
