Johnny Guirke
Question:159. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Health to outline any plans to review and evaluate the Public Health (Sunbeds) Act 2014, ten years on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15604/24]
View answerWednesday, 10 April 2024
Questions (159)
Written answers
There are currently no plans to review the Public Health (Sunbeds) Act 2014, given the developments at EU level and the initiatives under the National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan 2023-2026, which are detailed below.
The National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan includes several actions related to sunbeds, such as raising awareness through education and communication channels. The Plan also involves developing and evaluating education and community outreach initiatives tailored to high-risk population groups. Regarding the Public Health Sunbed Act 2014, the Plan includes actions to review health information for sunbed users as per the Public Health (Sunbeds) (Health Information) Regulations 2015 (S.I. No. 50 of 2015). Monitoring and reviewing the implementation and enforcement of the legislation by the HSE National Environmental Health Service is also included as part of the Plan.
In addition, Europe's Beating Cancer Plan includes Action 18, which aims to prevent exposure to ultraviolet radiation, including from sunbeds. Officials are engaging with European Commission on this matter, with a Commission Recommendation on reducing risks associated with sunbed use, to be forthcoming. The recommendation will be reviewed by my Department officials in consultation with relevant Government Departments and Agencies.