Ivan Yates
Ceist:193 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Health the regulations which currently pertain or are proposed in relation to the testing of cosmetics on animals; and if he will clarify the position in this regard.
Written Answers. - Cosmetic Testing.
The regulations pertaining to the manufacture and sale of cosmetics in Ireland are the European Communities (Cosmetic Products) Regulations, 1984-1987. It is proposed shortly to amend these regulations to take account of recent EC directives.
None of the provisions of the regulations in force at present or as proposed to be amended pertain to the testing of cosmetics on animals. It is a requirement that all cosmetics sold in this country should be safe for human use. In this respect some manufacturers may in establishing such safety carry out tests which may include testing on animals.
Animal experimentation in this country is controlled under the Cruelty to Animals Act and any person wishing to carry out an experiment must first be licensed by me in accordance with the provisions of the Act. I have granted no licence for animal experimentations for the testing or development of cosmetics.